Mapping data highlights that Brookfield and Kenmore Hills, along with other Queensland suburbs, not only face elevated cancer diagnosis rates but also show significantly higher survival rates than the national average.
The latest findings from The Australian Cancer Atlas 2.0, developed by Cancer Council Queensland and Queensland University of Technology, have identified several Queensland suburbs with higher than average cancer diagnosis rates.
Notably, whilst suburbs like Brookfield and Kenmore Hills experience higher incidences, they also boast survival rates that greatly surpass the rest of the country’s average.
The study provides a detailed look at the suburbs with the best 5-year cancer survival rates, all performing better than the national average:
| Suburb | Survival Rate (% better than national average) |
| St Lucia | 48% |
| The Gap | 40% |
| Brookfield – Kenmore Hills | 38% |
| Taringa | 36% |
| Murrumba Downs – Griffin | 35% |
| Fig Tree Pocket | 35% |
Meanwhile, suburbs such as Mackay, Berserker, and Bundaberg have been identified as the most at-risk areas in Queensland for cancer diagnoses, with rates significantly higher than the national average.
Mackay tops the list with a startling 57% higher incidence of cancer diagnoses compared to the national figure, followed closely by Berserker in Rockhampton and Bundaberg, with 48% and 45% higher rates, respectively.
These figures suggest that the quality of healthcare services, including early detection and access to treatment, significantly impacts survival outcomes. These statistics highlight urgent needs for targeted health interventions and enhanced screening programs in these regions to address the elevated risk and improve the overall health outcomes for their residents.
The data underscores the importance of healthcare accessibility in improving survival rates. The disparities highlighted by the Atlas call for tailored healthcare policies to enhance cancer care across Queensland, especially in hotspots with lower survival rates.
The study also points to socioeconomic and regional disparities affecting cancer outcomes. While some suburbs excel in survival rates, others lag due to varying access to healthcare and lifestyle factors. Addressing these disparities is crucial for equitable healthcare provision.
The ongoing research facilitated by the Atlas will help further understand the dynamics of cancer incidence and survival, aiming to improve outcomes across all affected areas.
Published 11-June-2024
