Cancer Data Shows Progress for Indigenous Australians, but Systemic Inequalities Persist
The latest cancer data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reveals a mixed picture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. While cancer outcomes are improving, the report highlights persistent systemic inequalities and the need for a comprehensive, community-led approach to cancer care.
Progress in Cancer Outcomes
Between 2011 and 2025, the cancer incidence rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people decreased from 342 cases per 100,000 people to an estimated 315 cases, after adjusting for age differences over time. The mortality rate also decreased from 148 to 105 deaths per 100,000 people during the same period.
Cancer mortality rates among Indigenous Australians have decreased at a faster rate than for non-Indigenous Australians, indicating progress in cancer prevention and treatment.
Disparities in Cancer Types
However, the data also reveals disparities in cancer types. Indigenous Australians are more likely to be diagnosed with cancers that have lower survival rates, such as lung and liver cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among Indigenous Australians, accounting for an estimated 26% of all cancer deaths.
Less common cancers are also more prevalent in Indigenous populations, with 30% of cancers diagnosed being rare or less common, compared to about 25% in non-Indigenous Australians.
Cervical Cancer Disparity
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are disproportionately affected by cervical cancer. While cervical cancer is the 20th most common cancer-causing death in the overall Australian female population, it is estimated to be the seventh most common cancer-causing death in Indigenous women.
Systemic Inequalities and Barriers
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) emphasizes the existence of systemic barriers to effective preventive and health promotion initiatives, as well as access to high-quality and timely care, including screening, early diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
The RACGP's National Guide to Preventive Healthcare of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People calls for holistic, strengths-based, life course approaches that address the full spectrum of cancer care and control. It also emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care to promote social, cultural, economic, and emotional well-being.
Community-Led Solutions
The AIHW's findings highlight the need for a more comprehensive understanding of cancer outcomes among Indigenous Australians, including detailed information about geography and socioeconomic status. This data will enable targeted action to address disparities and improve cancer outcomes.
According to AIHW spokesperson Justin Harvey, 'With a more complete picture of cancer outcomes, alongside more detailed information about geography and socioeconomic status, it becomes possible to identify where disparities are greatest and where targeted action can make the biggest difference.'
Conclusion
While the AIHW data shows progress in cancer outcomes for Indigenous Australians, it also underscores the persistent systemic inequalities and the need for a community-led, holistic approach to cancer care. By addressing these disparities, Australia can work towards a more equitable and effective cancer care system for all its citizens.
