Learn about Oesophageal CancerPūkai
Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month
This month, Gut Cancer Foundation is shining a light on oesophageal cancer, the factors that can increase risk and the symptoms of the disease.
Through leading research and innovation, awareness and education, advocacy and patient support, we have a mission to improve and save the lives of all New Zealanders affected by oesophageal cancer.
330
Around 330 New Zealanders are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer every year and the incidence is increasing.
17%
Survival rates are very low with only 17% of New Zealanders diagnosed with oesophageal cancer surviving more than five years.
31%
Registration rates of oesophageal cancer are around 38% higher for Māori compared to non-Māori, and death rates are 31% higher for Māori than non-Māori.
Personal Stories
Journeys of triumph, resilience and sadness told by patients and whānau affected by oesophageal cancer in New Zealand.
How do we help Kiwis affected by oesophageal cancer?
Gut Cancer Foundation gives grants to New Zealand institutions from the funds we raise. They run clinical research, trials and fellowships with the goal of improving treatment for patients with gut cancers.
TOPGEAR Clinical Trial
Because of our donors, Gut Cancer Foundation has funded the TOPGEAR clinical trial in New Zealand for eligible oesophageal cancer patients. The purpose of this trial was to investigate whether the addition of radiation treatment to chemotherapy before a patient’s surgery can improve outcomes such as pathological complete response rates and overall survival.
The TOPGEAR clinical trial is now in Phase III. With the trial recruitment now completed, instigators at the Australasian Gastro-Intestinal Trials Group have received additional funding to move into the findings stage. Clinicians will be able to hear an update on TOPGEAR when the trial is presented at the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Annual Meeting in October.
PALEO Clinical Trial
With funding from our supporters, we are providing access for six patients to an important study to increase quality of life in oesophageal cancer patients. PALEO aims to ease swallowing issues for patients using a combination of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy which is currently unfunded in New Zealand. PALEO is an AGITG (Australasian Gastrointestinal Trials Group) study.
It is really important for us to be able to be a part of international studies, it allows trials of unfunded medication and is how we can advocate to improve standard of care locally. The Gut Cancer Foundation is currently actively supporting six studies and trials.
Every Action Counts
By donating, raising awareness, or educating your whānau about oesophageal cancer, you can make a real impact in the lives of New Zealanders. Join us in sharing vital information and providing real support to those affected.
Every action counts - let’s make a difference together.
Donate to GCF today
We appreciate any support you can give to help fund clinical research and raise awareness of gut cancers.