Australia is facing a mounting women’s health emergency as uterine cancers become the nation’s fastest-growing form of cancer among women, according to a new report released today. The State of the Nation: Uterine Cancers in Australia 2025 report, published by the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG), reveals that incidence rates have doubled over the past 25 years and are projected to climb even further. Without urgent action, more than 44,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with the disease by 2035, with nearly 8,900 deaths forecast.
The report highlights that uterine cancer, once thought to primarily affect older women, is now increasingly being diagnosed in younger age groups. Cases among women aged 25 to 44 are expected to rise by around 60 per cent over the next decade, marking a significant shift in the disease’s demographic profile.
“This comprehensive, evidence-based report now clearly shows that uterine cancers are a major and growing health challenge. Diagnoses are increasing across almost every age group, and the impact is being felt by women, families and communities in every corner of the country,” said Professor Clare Scott AM, Chair of ANZGOG.
The report also exposes striking inequities in diagnosis and survival outcomes. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women in rural and regional areas, and those from lower-income backgrounds are all more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and have limited access to specialist care. Addressing these disparities could improve outcomes for more than 22,000 women over the next ten years.
“Where a woman lives, her cultural background, financial circumstances, or where her cancer is located, should never determine her chance of surviving. Yet for too many women, the unspoken burden of uterine cancer is a reality they face every day. We can, and must, do better,” said Professor Scott.
The report notes that up to 60 per cent of uterine cancer cases could be prevented through improved awareness and early intervention. However, public knowledge remains alarmingly low, with 94 per cent of women reportedly unaware of uterine or endometrial cancers. Despite this, research funding for uterine cancer has lagged far behind other diseases. Between 2003 and 2020, the cancer received just $1 million annually in funding, compared to $24.5 million for breast cancer, a 427 per cent funding gap per diagnosis per year.
“Behind every number is a woman, her family, her community, and often a story of silence and isolation. This report is a wake-up call. Uterine cancers have largely been unseen, unsupported, and underfunded for far too long,” said A/Professor Yoland Antill, ANZGOG Director, Deputy Chair Research Advisory Committee and Medical Oncologist.
ANZGOG’s national plan calls for urgent, coordinated action focused on five priorities: halving the incidence rate, eliminating inequities, ensuring access to precision care, supporting survivors, and investing in research and data. The group is urging collaboration between government, healthcare providers, and the private sector to drive meaningful change.
“This report outlines an agenda for change. No single organisation can tackle the rising burden of uterine cancers alone. ANZGOG is committed to working with government, partners and the sector to reverse the rise in uterine cancer and ultimately save lives,” said Professor Scott.
The research was prepared independently by Insight Economics and jointly funded by ANZGOG, AstraZeneca, Eisai, GSK and MSD.
