A new national push to tackle prostate cancer is underway today, with the first meeting of the Prostate Cancer Expert Advisory Group bringing together leading experts from across Australia.
Co-chaired by Special Envoy for Men's Health Dan Repacholi and Associate Professor Chris Milross, Chair of Cancer Australia's Advisory Council, the group will play a key role in improving how prostate cancer is detected, treated and managed, and making sure men get better support after diagnosis.
This work aligns with the priorities of the Australian Cancer Plan, which aims to improve cancer outcomes for all Australians through better prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care.
The group brings together clinical experts, researchers, leaders in cancer care and men with lived experience to focus on the biggest challenges facing men with prostate cancer. This includes lifting early detection, improving access to care, and making sure no man is left behind because of where he lives or his background.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men and one of the biggest killers. Around 79 men are diagnosed every day and more than 3900 men lose their lives to the disease each year.
The advisory group will focus on improving access to care, lifting early detection especially for men at highest risk, reducing overdiagnosis and overtreatment, and making sure men and their families get the support they need.
Quotes attributable to the Special Envoy for Men's Health, Dan Repacholi:
"Today is an important step in tackling one of the biggest health challenges facing Australian men."
"Prostate cancer is taking far too many lives and we need to do better."
"Too many blokes are being diagnosed too late or missing out on care, especially in regional and rural communities."
"As Chair of this group, I want to make sure we are finding this disease earlier, treating it properly, and supporting men and their families every step of the way."
"This is about saving lives and making sure blokes can live well after a diagnosis."
"I am looking forward to working with experts from across the country to get better results for men."
Quotes attributable to Associate Professor Chris Milross, Chair of Cancer Australia's Advisory Council:
"This advisory group brings together the expertise we need to drive meaningful change in prostate cancer outcomes across Australia, in line with the Australian Cancer Plan's goals."
"We have a real opportunity to improve early detection and ensure men receive the most appropriate care based on the latest evidence."
"Our focus is on delivering more coordinated, equitable care so that every man, regardless of location, has access to high-quality treatment and support."
Quotes attributable to Professor Dorothy Keefe, CEO, Cancer Australia:
"This initiative reflects Cancer Australia's commitment to the Australian Cancer Plan by improving outcomes for men with prostate cancer through national collaboration and evidence-based care."
"We know that earlier detection and better access to care can significantly reduce the impact of prostate cancer on Australian men and their families."
"Cancer Australia is proud to support this expert group as it works to strengthen care pathways and ensure no man is left behind."
