Only 2% of Australians think that upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers cause the most cancer deaths, but here are the real stats!
Claimed over 9,000 lives in 2024!
Over the span of 20 years, upper GI cancers were the fastest growing tumour stream in Australia, responsible for 9,301 deaths in 2024 alone.
Responsible for almost 1 in 5 cancer-related deaths!
Upper GI cancers now make up about 1 in 5 (18%) of the nation’s total cancer deaths, compared to 1 in 7 (14%) two decades ago.
Almost triple the growth rate of lung cancer deaths!
Between 2004 and 2024, upper GI cancer deaths grew by 74%, compared with 26% for lung cancer and 36% for all cancers in Australia.
In a recent poll, approximately 2% of Australians correctly identified upper GI as the cancer group causing the most deaths, with the majority choosing previous-leader lung cancers (21%). Skin (16%) and breast (10%) cancers were also the second and third most likely choice by Australians, despite ranking 8th (2301) and 6th (3203) in terms of actual deaths respectively, while a quarter of Australians did not correctly identify any of the 12 cancer groups.*
It's time to change the stats!
Let's raise awareness of upper GI cancers and bring these often‑overlooked cancers into focus. When we understand the signs, share information, and support those affected, we help shift outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.
Together, here are ways we can make a meaningful difference.
Amplify this message!
The rise in upper GI cancers is too significant to ignore, and more Australians deserve to understand this reality to help drive change and improve outcomes. Share this message with family, friends, and your wider community - turning knowledge into conversation is one of the most powerful steps we can take together.
Know the facts. Trust your gut. Seek advice.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of upper GI cancers is important. While symptoms are sometimes vague, having a general understanding of them is important. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of upper GI cancer, don’t wait, getting checked is important. Staying informed and helping others stay informed creates awareness that can lead to earlier detection.
Liver cancer
Learn the signsBiliary cancer
Learn the signsStomach cancer
Learn the signsOesophageal cancer
Learn the signsPancreatic cancer
Learn the signsGet support
Speak to an upper GI cancer nurse or counsellor, we're here to provide you with the support you need. We can provide you with expert information, counselling, resources, and more! Support is available to anyone impacted by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
Get involved!
Your contribution drives vital research, strengthens support for patients and carers, and fuels Pancare Foundation’s advocacy to improve outcomes for people affected by upper GI cancer. Whether you choose to give or start your own fundraiser, you’re supporting work that brings hope, advances treatment, and changes lives. Your generosity becomes part of something bigger - a movement pushing for greater care, compassion, and support for everyone affected by upper GI cancers.
*Analysis of the latest ABS cause of deaths data by Pancare Foundation and Provocate combined with a poll of 1000+ Australians by YouGov plc for the study.