Margaret Grant

Shine a Light in 2025 on Lung Cancer

Shine a Light in 2025 on Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is Australia’s biggest cancer killer. New cases are estimated at 15,122 in 2024, representing 8.9% of all new cancer diagnoses. It was the most common cause of cancer death in 2022 and this trend is estimated to apply in 2024.  But, there is some good news. The five year relative survival rate for individuals with lung cancer has increased from 10% (1991-1995) to 26% (2016-2020). (Data from canceraustralia.gov.au.)

 Lung Foundation Australia offers hope and support.  The Shine a Light campaign raises funds for research for the prevention, management and cure of lung cancer. Lung Foundation Australia provides support through information, support groups and a Lung Cancer Support Nurse Service.

 Please donate if you can,  and/or come and walk with us on Saturday November 8 when we walk the Tan (5.15 to 7).

We walked Shine a Light in 2024 after I learnt that my initial lung cancer removed in 2022 had reoccurred. And, luckily?, due to a mutation of the cancer, I am doing well with a daily tablet that suppresses cancer growth.  It doesn’t feel like a death sentence now; more like living with a chronic disease. This treatment has taken many, many years of research and trials. They are now able to base treatment on the genetic profiling of the cancer and optimal treatment plans are constantly being updated based on trial results. Unfortunately, US research funding has dropped significantly.  Australia needs to demonstrate we understand the importance of scientific r&d by funding more research here!

 I was motivated to walk again this year when I saw the Lung Cancer scorecard for 2025 (produced by LFA), comparing lung cancer with other common cancers. The 5 year survival rate for lung cancer is less than a third of these other cancers! Research levels are significantly lower in $ per death terms. And the specialist nurse numbers are also relatively low.  Why?