It's Youth Cancer Awareness Month
As cancer nurses, many of us have seen first-hand what an AYA cancer diagnosis looks like in practice. Young Australians aged 15–25 fall through the gap between paediatric and adult oncology systems, with many facing delayed diagnoses, limited access to clinical trials, and survivorship consequences that can shape the rest of their lives. Yet public awareness of this issue remains critically low.
The numbers make the case: youth cancers have risen 50% since the 1980s, bowel cancer in young Australians is up 270%, and sarcoma survival rates haven't improved in 40 years. A single diagnosis carries an estimated $1.3 million lifetime cost.
Greater public awareness of youth cancer strengthens the case for better funding, expanded clinical trial access for young patients, and more integrated AYA care pathways.
Cancer nurses are a powerful voice in this conversation. Throughout April, we encourage you to share YCAM content using #YouthCancerAwarenessMonth, and to display posters in your ward or clinic. Assets are available at canteen.org.au/youthcancer.
