Cancer types

19-minute read

Cancer can affect your body in many ways and there are several cancer types. See this general guide on symptoms, causes and treatments of cancer to understand what might be involved. Or you can learn more about specific conditions below.

Bladder cancer

Bladder cancer affects about 3,000 Australians annually and is commoner in people over 60 and in men. It can be treated if found early.

Bone cancer

Primary bone cancer, which begins in the bones, is rare. But many other cancers, such as lung or breast cancer, can then spread to the bones.

Bowel cancer (colon and rectal cancer)

Bowel cancer is a common cancer, but early detection can increase the chance of successful treatment. Taking simple steps can help reduce your risk.

Bowen's disease

Bowen's disease is an early form of skin cancer. There are good treatments available, but don't ignore it since it can spread and become more serious.

Brain tumours

A brain tumour is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. Some are malignant, when it’s known as brain cancer, and others are benign (non-cancerous).

Breast cancer

Breast cancer often shows as a lump in the breast tissue, although most breast lumps are not cancerous. If detected early on, recovery is more likely.

Cancer of the uterus

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test checks for inflammation where red blood cells clump together in the body.

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in a woman's cervix. It is one of a few cancers where screening can detect pre-cancerous lesions.

Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer, which develops in the lining of the womb, is diagnosed in about 3,000 women per year. Learn how to spot the signs.

Eye cancer

Eye cancer develops when abnormal cells in the eye grow and divide uncontrollably. Eye cancer can be hard to treat, but it is rare in Australia.

Kaposi sarcoma

Kaposi sarcoma is usually found under the skin, or in the lining of the mouth, nose or throat, and is associated with HIV/AIDS. Find out why here.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer (or renal cancer) grows in the cells of the kidneys. Treatments for kidney cancer are improving, especially if it is detected early.

Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a cancer that affects the formation of white blood cells. Learn about the different types, as well as symptoms and treatment options.

Liver cancer

Liver cancer is one of the top 10 causes of cancer deaths in Australia. Learn more here about liver cancer and the different types and treatments.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Learn about the causes and symptoms of, and treatments for, this serious disease.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a malignant tumour caused by exposure to asbestos, maybe decades ago. Australia has one of the world’s highest rates of mesothelioma.

Mouth cancer

Mouth cancer can affect your tongue, lips, cheeks or soft palate. Learn about risk factors, symptoms, treatment and importance of early diagnosis.

Multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma develops when plasma cells build up abnormally in the bone marrow. Currently there's no cure but treatment is available.

Neuroendocrine cancers

Neuroendocrine cancers are a rare group of cancers that most commonly form in the digestive system and the lungs. Learn more here.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer affecting about 5,000 Australians per year, including children. Learn about its symptoms and treatment.

Nose cancer

Nose cancer develops in cells within the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Learn more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Oesophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer develops in the ‘tube’ between the throat and the stomach. It’s a very serious condition and important to know the risk factors.

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is most common in women aged over 50. Find out about the different types and the symptoms, which can be difficult to recognise.

Pancreatic cancer

Most cases of pancreatic cancer occur in people over the age of 50. Find out why the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed is so important.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men. Having symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have it, but a doctor should still investigate.

Skin cancer and melanoma

Skin cancer and melanoma occurs when skin cells grow abnormally, usually from too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer, most common in men over 50, doesn’t always have symptoms. You might reduce your risk of stomach cancer by making changes to your diet.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the second most common cancer in young males. Treatment is usually successful. Learn about detection, symptoms and treatment.

Throat cancer

Throat cancer can be treated if diagnosed early so you should see a doctor if you’re concerned. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer can, in most cases, be treated. Find out how it develops, what the symptoms are and when you should see a doctor.

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