Australian Centre for Cancer Equity

Cancer is a disease that can affect anyone – but it doesn’t affect everyone equally.

  • Indigenous communities are twice as likely to die from cancer
  • People living in social housing with a diagnosis of lung cancer have 5 X mortality rates
  • Rural and remote communities have higher incidence and 3X lower survival rates
  • Migrant communities face more than double the risk of infection-related cancers

The Australian Centre for Cancer Equity (AcCE) targets disparity in cancer outcomes.

The unequal burden of cancer on communities is worsened by limited ac­cess to life-saving treatment, lack of opportunity to participate in clinical trials, and a global under-representation of intersectionally vulnerable populations in cancer research. AcCE targets each of these factors and tailors solutions for Australia’s most vulnerable communities.

AcCE was founded in South Western Sydney, an area marked by socio-demographic challenges that create healthcare disparity. A national platform, AcCE is a partnership between Ingham Institute, South Western Sydney Local Health District and Cancer Institute NSW.

 

Key initiatives

  • Population Health: Prevention & Early Detection
    • Understanding risk factors to identify people at risk in the community
  • Responsive & Accessible Health Systems
    • Providing culturally sensitive support to individuals to help them navigate the complex health system
  • Genomics and Precision Medicine
    • Building on current research to develop precision oncology for personalised treatments
  • AI & Digital Innovation
    • Machine learning and AI algorithms for analysing pathology images and genomic data.
    • AI-enhanced personalised medicine that predicts treatment responses and improves treatment effectiveness
  • Equity for Indigenous communities:
    • A dedicated First Nations Centre led by First Nations leaders, respecting the autonomy and importance of Indigenous communities when addressing their health challenges.
  • Bringing global clinical trials to Australia
    • Introducing new techniques and treatments to an under-served community

 

By becoming an AcCE partner, you will join us in our mission for global health equity.

Professor Wei Chua

Lead, Responsive and Accessible Health Systems
Ingham Institute

“Dismantling barriers, delivering health justice: We envisage a future where everyone, regardless of background, receives high-quality cancer care.”

Professor Wei Chua