[Please note, the descriptive text in this measure is currently being updated to reflect the most current data. To access the most up-to-date data please refer to the charts tab]
All cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C00–C97, D45, D46, D47.1, D47.3–D47.5)
In 2016, there were 45,782 deaths from cancer in Australia (25,910 males and 19,872 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 49,896 deaths (28,070 males and 21,826 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 5 (1 in 4 males and 1 in 6 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 160.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (198.9 for males and 128.7 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 159.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (194.8 for males and 129.9 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2, 3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Limited data are available on cancer mortality for Indigenous Australians, due to insufficient quality of Indigenous status data in some jurisdictions. Mortality data of sufficient quality are available for New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with these five jurisdictions accounting for 88% of Australia’s Indigenous population.5 The data provided here on cancer mortality rates for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians are sourced from these five jurisdictions.
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (234.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (163.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised rate for the Indigenous population was 268.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 209.0 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 205.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 130.7 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
In 2012–2016, the age-specific mortality rate for all cancers combined increased with age for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.5 Higher age-specific mortality rates were observed among Indigenous males and females aged between 45 and 74 years compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts. Similar age-specific mortality rates were observed for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians aged 85 years or over. This was mainly due to comparatively lower age-specific mortality rates among Indigenous males in this age group.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate for all cancers combined was higher among persons living in Inner Regional, Outer Regional, and Remote and Very Remote areas, when compared to persons living in Major Cities.6 A similar pattern was observed for males and females during this period.
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (185.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (133.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6 A similar pattern across SES areas was observed for males and females during this period.
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for Australian males and females for all cancers combined was in the lower part of the estimated range for the selected comparison countries (for this international comparison, data are for ICD-10 codes C00–C97, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers (C44)). The age-standardised mortality rate for Australia was 90.6 per 100,000 – about 10% lower than the estimated global average for 2018 and the fifth lowest rate among the selected developed countries. 4 This is in contrast to Australia’s incidence rate of cancer, which typifies the higher rates generally seen in other high-income countries. In such countries, high rates of breast, bowel, and prostate cancer generally occur and in Australia, high rates of melanoma. These cancers generally have a good prognosis.4
Choose a cancer type below for further information:
Bladder cancer (ICD-10 code C67)
In 2016, bladder cancer was the 15th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will become the 14th most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,019 deaths from bladder cancer in Australia (721 males and 298 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1,209 deaths (852 males and 357 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from bladder cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 202 (1 in 131 males and 1 in 387 females).2,3
In 2016, the age–standardised mortality rate was 3.4 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.6 for males and 1.8 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 3.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.9 for males and 2.0 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older. 2, 3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (3.7 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortaility rate for the Indigenous population was 9.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.7 deaths per 100,000 for females). The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 1.9 deaths per 100,000 for females).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (4.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (3.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (4.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (2.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for bladder cancer in Australian males and females was in the middle of the estimated range when compared to the selected developed countries.4
Brain cancer (ICD-10 code C71)
In 2016, brain cancer was the tenth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will become the 11th most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,439 deaths from brain cancer in Australia (878 males and 561 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1,549 deaths (932 males and 617 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from brain cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 152 (1 in 122 males and 1 in 197 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 5.3 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.8 for males and 4.0 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 5.3 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.6 for males and 4.1 for females). Cancer mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2 Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, peaking among males aged 75–79 years and among females aged 80–84 years. 2, 3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (2.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 2.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.8 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.9 deaths per 100,000 for females).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (3.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons in SES 1 areas to 5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons in SES 3 areas.6
International comparisons
International data are available for brain and central nervous system cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C70–72). In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for brain and central nervous system cancers in Australian males and females was one of the highest among the selected developed countries.4
Breast cancer (ICD-10 code C50)
In 2016, breast cancer was the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. During 2016, it was also the second most common cause of death from cancer among females. It is estimated that it will remain the fourth most common cause of death from cancer in 2019 and the second most common cause of death from cancer among females in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 3,004 deaths from breast cancer in Australia (28 males and 2,976 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 3,090 deaths (32 males and 3,058 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from breast cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 82 (1 in 3,455 males and 1 in 43 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 10.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (0.2 for males and 19.9 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 10.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (0.2 for males and 18.8 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age for females, and for males were higher for those aged 70 years or over.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In 2012−2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher among Indigenous females (23.7 deaths per 100,000 females) than among non-Indigenous females (20.0 deaths per 100,000 females).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (21.3 deaths per 100,000 females) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (18.7 deaths per 100,000 females) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (20.7 deaths per 100,000 females) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (18.2 deaths per 100,000 females) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for breast cancer in Australian females was around the middle of the range, ranked as the sixth-lowest among selected developed countries.4
Cervical cancer (ICD-10 code C53)
In 2016, cervical cancer was the 19th leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. It is estimated that it remains the 19th most common cause of death from cancer among females in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 259 deaths from cervical cancer in Australia.1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 256 deaths. In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from cervical cancer by her 85th birthday will be 1 in 494.2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 1.9 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 1.8 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, peaking among females aged 80–84 years.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012−2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous females (7.5 deaths per 100,000 females) than for non-Indigenous females (1.8 deaths per 100,000 females).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (2.4 deaths per 100,000 females) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (1.6 deaths per 100,000 females) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (2.5 deaths per 100,000 females) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (1.0 deaths per 100,000 females) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for cervical cancer in Australian females was low compared with estimates for selected developed countries, with similar rates in Canada and the United Kingdom. New Zealand was the only country to have a lower mortality rate.4
Colorectal cancer (Bowel, ICD-10 codes C18–C20, C26.0)
In 2016, colorectal cancer was the second leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the second most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 5,375 deaths from colorectal cancer in Australia (2,936 males and 2,439 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 5,597 deaths (3,009 males and 2,588 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from colorectal cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 43 (1 in 37 males and 1 in 51 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 18.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (22.7 for males and 15.4 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 17.8 deaths per 100,000 persons (21.1 for males and 15.0 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older. 2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (13.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (14.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 16.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 10.9 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 18.2 deaths per 100,000 for males and 12.1 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (22.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Outer Regional areas and lowest (17.8) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (21.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (15.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
International data are available for colorectal and anal cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C18–21). In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for colorectal and anal cancers combined for Australian males and females was around the middle of the range among selected developed countries.4
Colon cancer (ICD-10 code C18)
In 2016, there were 1,752 deaths from colon cancer in Australia (918 males and 834 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1,507 deaths (767 males and 739 females). (Note: The estimates for males and females may not add to the estimates for persons due to rounding). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from colon cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 167 (1 in 143 males and 1 in 197 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 6.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (7.1 for males and 5.1 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.4 for males and 4.1 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In 2012-2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was similar for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The age-standardised mortality rate for Indigenous Australians was 6.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.3 for males and 7.3 for females). The age-standardised mortality rate for non-Indigenous Australians during this period was 6.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (7.7 for males and 5.7 for females).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional areas (7.8 and 7.6 deaths per 100,000 persons in Outer Regional and Inner Regional areas, respectively) and lowest (5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (7.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
For a comparison with international data, see ‘Colorectal cancer (Bowel, ICD10 codes C18–C20, C26.0)’.
Rectal cancer (ICD-10 codes C19–C20)
In 2016, there were 2,574 deaths from rectal cancer in Australia (1,493 males and 1,081 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 3,195 deaths (1,825 males and 1,370 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from rectal cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 70 (1 in 59 males and 1 in 86 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 9.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.5 for males and 7.1 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 10.3 deaths per 100,000 persons (12.7 for males and 8.3 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (6.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than non-Indigenous Australians (8.3 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 10.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.6 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 10.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 6.4 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (9.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities and lowest (6.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (9.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (8.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
For a comparison with international data, see ‘Colorectal cancer (Bowel, ICD10 codes C18–C20, C26.0)’.
Head and neck cancer (including lip; ICD-10 codes C00-C14, C30–C32)
In 2016, head and neck cancer was the 14th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will be the 15th most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,080 deaths from head and neck cancer in Australia (804 males and 276 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1,202 deaths (887 males and 315 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from head and neck cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 194 (1 in 123 males and 1 in 416 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 3.8 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.0 for males and 1.8 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 3.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.1 for males and 1.9 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (13.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (4.0 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 21.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 6.6 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 1.8 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (8.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (3.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (2.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
Comparable international data are not available for head and neck cancers (including lip).
Liver cancer (ICD-10 code C22)
In 2016, liver cancer was the seventh leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the seventh most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,864 deaths from liver cancer in Australia (1,231 males and 633 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 2,161 deaths (1,436 males and 725 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from liver cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 104 (1 in 76 males and 1 in 158 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 6.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (9.2 for males and 4.1 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 7.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (9.8 for males and 4.4 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (15.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (6.3 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 20.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 11.2 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 9.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 4.0 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (8.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (5.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (8.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for liver cancer in Australian males and females was in the middle of the range among selected developed countries.4
Lung cancer (ICD-10 codes C33–C34)
In 2016, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 8,410 deaths from lung cancer in Australia (5,023 males and 3,387 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 9,034 deaths (5,179 males and 3,855 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from lung cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 24 (1 in 20 males and 1 in 30 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 30 deaths per 100,000 persons (38 for males and 23 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 29 deaths per 100,000 persons (36 for males and 23 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (61.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (30.8 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 71.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 53.2 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 40.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 22.9 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (38.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (28.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (38.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (20.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for lung cancer in Australian males and females was in the lower part of the range among selected developed countries.4
Melanoma of the skin (ICD-10 code C43)
In 2016, melanoma skin cancer was the 12th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will become the 9th most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,281 deaths from melanoma skin cancer in Australia (863 males and 418 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 1,725 deaths (1,190 males and 536 females). (Note: The estimates for males and females may not add to the estimates for persons due to rounding). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from melanoma skin cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 134 (1 in 89 males and 1 in 246 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 4.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.6 for males and 2.7 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will increase to 5.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (8.3 for males and 3.3 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (2.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 4.1 deaths per 100,000 for males and 0.9 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 8.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.5 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (6.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest in Major Cities (4.8 deaths per 100,000 persons).6
During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 4.8 deaths per 100,000 persons in the highest SES areas (SES 5) to 5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons in lower SES areas (SES 1, SES 2).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for melanoma of the skin for Australian males and females was among the highest in the world. Among the selected developed countries, only New Zealand had a higher rate for males and females, while the Australian rate was similar to The Netherlands for females.4
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (ICD-10 codes C82–C86)
In 2016, there were 1,471 deaths from non-Hodgkin lymphoma in Australia (870 males and 601 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 1,542 deaths (904 males and 638 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from non-Hodgkin lymphoma by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 148 (1 in 115 males and 1 in 201 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.7 for males and 3.7 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 4.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.3 for males and 3.6 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was slightly lower for Indigenous Australians (4.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 6.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.6 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.9 deaths per 100,000 for males and 4.1 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (4.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (4.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
International data are available for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other and unspecified malignant neoplasms of lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue (ICD-10 codes C82–85 and C96). In 2018, the projected the age-standardised mortality rate for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other and unspecified malignant neoplasms of lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue in Australian males and females are in the middle of the range, among the selected developed countries.4
Oesophageal cancer (ICD-10 code C15)
In 2016, oesophageal cancer was the 11th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will become the 12th most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 1,338 deaths from oesophageal cancer in Australia (988 males and 350 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 1,470 deaths (1,087 males and 383 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from oesophageal cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 155 (1 in 96 males and 1 in 356 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (7.5 for males and 2.2 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will remain at 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (7.4 for males and 2.2 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 50–54 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (7.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (4.6 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 12.2 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.9 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 7.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.2 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional and Remote areas (5.5, 5.7 and 5.6 deaths per 100,000 persons in Inner Regional areas, Outer Regional areas, and Remote and Very Remote areas combined, respectively) and lowest (4.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (3.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for oesophageal cancer for Australian males and females was in the middle of the range among selected developed countries.4
Ovarian cancer (ICD-10 code C56)
In 2016, ovarian cancer was the sixth leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. In 2019, it is estimated that it will remain the sixth most common cause of death from cancer among females.2,3
In 2016, there were 938 deaths from ovarian cancer in Australia.1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 1,046 deaths. In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from ovarian cancer by her 85th birthday will be 1 in 114.2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 6.2 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 6.4 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In 2012−2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous females (5.8 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous females (6.4 deaths per 100,000).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional areas and Major Cities (6.6 deaths per 100,000 females in Inner Regional areas and 6.5 deaths per 100,000 females in Outer Regional areas, and Major Cities) and lowest (4.7 deaths per 100,000 females) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area , ranging from 6.1 deaths per 100,000 females in the second-highest SES areas (SES 4) to 6.8 deaths per 100,000 females in the lowest SES areas (SES 1).
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for ovarian cancer in Australian females was in the middle of the range among selected developed countries.4
Pancreatic cancer (ICD-10 code C25)
In 2016, pancreatic cancer was the fifth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the fifth most common cause of death from cancer in 2019. 2,3
In 2016, there were 2,911 deaths from pancreatic cancer in Australia (1,500 males and 1,411 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 3,051 deaths (1,590 males and 1,460 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from pancreatic cancer by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 73 (1 in 65 males and 1 in 82 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 10.2 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.4 for males and 9.0 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 9.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.0 for males and 8.6 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (12.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (9.6 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 12.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 11.8 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 11.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 8.3 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by remoteness areas, ranging from 9.8 deaths per 100,000 persons in both Major Cities and Remote and Very Remote areas combined, to 10.3 deaths per 100,000 persons in Outer Regional areas.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (10.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (8.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for pancreatic cancer in Australian males was higher than for Australian females. Males were in the middle of the range when compared with estimates for selected developed countries. By comparison, Australian females had the lowest mortality rate among selected developed countries.4
Prostate cancer (ICD-10 code C61)
In 2016, prostate cancer was the third most common cause of cancer death in Australia. It was the second most common cause of cancer death among males in 2016. It is estimated that it will remain the third most common cause of cancer death in Australia and the second most common cause of male cancer death in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 3,248 deaths from prostate cancer in Australia.1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 3,306 deaths. In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of a male dying from prostate cancer by his 85th birthday will be 1 in 35.2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 25.2 deaths per 100,000 males.1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 23.0 deaths per 100,000 males. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012-2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous males (23.8 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous males (26.4 deaths per 100,000).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (29.9 30.0 deaths per 100,000 males) in Outer Regional areas and lowest (23.7 deaths per 100,000 males) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in the lower SES areas (27.5 and 27.4 deaths per 100,000 males in SES 2 areas and SES 1 areas, respectively) and lowest (22.5 deaths per 100,000 males) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for prostate cancer in Australian males was in the middle of the range when compared to selected developed countries.4
Unknown primary site cancer (ICD-10 code C77-C80, C97)
In 2016, cancer of unknown primary site was the sixth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the sixth most common cause of death from cancer in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 2,554 deaths from cancer of unknown primary site in Australia (1,373 males and 1,181 females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 2,431 deaths (1,258 males and 1,173 females). In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from cancer of unknown primary site by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 108 (1 in 88 males and 1 in 1 in 135 females).2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 8.8 deaths per 100,000 persons (10.6 for males and 7.1 for females).1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will decrease to 7.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (8.8 for males and 6.4 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012–2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (17.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (9.4 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 16.7 deaths per 100,000 for males and 17.8 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 11.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 7.8 deaths per 100,000 for females.5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (11.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (8.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6
During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (10.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (6.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6
International comparisons
Comparable international data are not available for cancers of unknown primary site.
Uterine cancer (ICD-10 codes C54–C55)
In 2016, uterine cancer was the 11th leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the 11th most common cause of death from cancer among females in 2019.2,3
In 2016, there were 527 deaths from uterine cancer in Australia.1 In 2019, it is estimated that this will increase to 562 deaths. In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from uterine cancer by her 85th birthday will be 1 in 205.2,3
In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 3.5 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 3.4 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age.2,3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
In the period 2012-2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous females (5.8 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous females (3.2 per 100,000).5
Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)
In the period 2013–2017, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by Remoteness area, ranging from 3.2 deaths per 100,000 females in each Major Cities or Inner Regional areas to 3.7 deaths per 100,000 females in each Outer Regional areas or Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6
During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 2.8 deaths per 100,000 females in the highest SES areas (SES 5) to 3.6 deaths per 100,000 females in the lowest SES areas (SES 1).6
International comparisons
International data estimates are available for uterine cancer for the ICD-10 code C54 only. In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for uterine cancer in Australian females was in the lower part of the range among selected developed countries.4
