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Cancer types

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.

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Bladder cancer

In bladder cancer, abnormal cells in the bladder grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. Learn about the signs and your treatment options.

Bone cancer

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

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Bowel cancer (colon and rectal cancer)

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

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Bowen's disease

Bowen's disease is an early form of skin cancer that looks like a patch of red, scaly skin. Read about the symptoms and treatment for Bowen’s disease.

Brain tumours

A brain tumour is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. Some are malignant (cancerous, and can spread) 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 found early, full recovery is more likely.

Cancer of the uterus

Cancer of the uterus (womb) includes endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Find out about the symptoms, tests and treatments.

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Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix (neck of the uterus). Learn how screening can detect precancerous lesions.

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Endometrial cancer

Endometrial cancer develops in the lining of the uterus (womb). Learn how to spot the signs of endometrial cancer and what your treatment options are.

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Eye cancer

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

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 more.

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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 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 type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, maybe decades ago. Find out about the symptoms and treatments for 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 your bone marrow. Currently there's no cure but treatment is available.

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Neuroendocrine cancers

Neuroendocrine cancers are a rare group of cancers that most commonly form in the digestive system and the lungs. Read on for symptoms and treatments.

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Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. Read about the symptoms and treatment.

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Nose cancer

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

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Oesophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer develops in the 'tube' between the throat and the stomach. It's a serious condition — learn about the risk factors and symptoms.

Ovarian cancer

Cancer of the ovaries is most common in females aged over 50 years. Symptoms can be hard to spot. Read on to learn when to see your doctor.

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Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is more common 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 males, but most are slow-growing. Find out more about screening, diagnosis and treatment.

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.

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Stomach cancer

Stomach cancer, most common in males over 50, doesn't always have symptoms. Reduce your risk of stomach cancer by making changes to your diet.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the 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.

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Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is treatable in most cases. Learn about its development, symptoms, when to consult a doctor, and available treatments.

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