Our research activity

Transforming Research for Upper GI Cancers

Upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, including oesophageal, stomach, liver, biliary, and pancreatic cancers, are among the most difficult to diagnose and treat, contributing to poor survival rates and reduced quality of life. As part of Pancare Foundation’s 2026–2028 Next Frontier Strategy, Pancare’s Research Strategy is designed to change this. By fostering greater knowledge exchange and collaboration across the cancer research landscape, Pancare will work with others to transform outcomes for people impacted by upper GI cancers.

Aligned with national frameworks like the Australian Cancer Plan and the National Pancreatic Cancer Roadmap, our strategy takes a collective impact approach, bringing together researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to accelerate progress across our four focus areas:

1. Prevention, Early Detection and Screening

We support research that helps prevent upper GI cancers and detect them earlier, including:

• Promoting best-practice prevention and awareness messaging
• Developing and validating biomarkers for earlier detection
• Integrating AI, genomics, and imaging technologies to improve diagnostics
• Advocating for national screening programs where appropriate

2. Precision Medicine

We aim to make treatments more targeted and effective by:

• Advancing understanding of the biology of upper GI cancers
• Enhancing genomic profiling to guide treatment decisions
• Expanding access to clinical trials and strengthening sector-wide collaboration
• Accelerating the development of personalised therapies

3. Supportive and Palliative Care

We’re committed to improving quality of life by:

• Developing culturally appropriate care models, especially for underserved communities
• Enhancing palliative care pathways
• Integrating patient-reported outcomes into care
• Exploring digital health solutions and strategic partnerships

4. Data-Driven Research and Cancer Registries

We’re harnessing the power of data to improve care and inform policy by:

• Exploring national research data platforms integrated with cancer registries
• Using registries to identify variations in care, opportunities to optimise best practice and conduct pragmatic trials
• Advocating for the use of real-world data to guide clinical decisions and improve outcomes

Through this strategy, Pancare is leading efforts to transform research into real-world impact, ensuring people affected by upper GI cancers can have their cancer detected earlier, receive best practice care, and have more hope for the future.

To learn more about our research strategy or explore opportunities to collaborate, please contact Mark Buzza, Head of Research, Innovation and Advocacy at mark.buzza@pancare.org.au