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Rare or less common (RLC) cancers

A cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event, but if you have been diagnosed with a rare or less common (RLC) cancer, it can be especially challenging. These cancers are more difficult to diagnose than more common cancers, so are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage. Sometimes, this may make them more difficult to treat.

Rare and less common cancers affect only a small number of people. In Australia, a rare cancer is defined as one with fewer than 6 diagnoses per 100,000 people, and a less common cancer is one with fewer than 12 diagnoses per 100,000 people. Examples of rare and less common cancers include small bowel, gall bladder and penile cancer, and neuroendocrine tumours.

A cancer diagnosis usually brings uncertainty, but people with a rare or less common cancer may face increased uncertainty and feelings of isolation. Our Understanding Rare and Less Common Cancers booklet provides an overview to help you understand more about these challenges and how to cope with them.

You can download fact sheets on nine rare and less common cancers below. We also have information on more than 30 other types of cancer including many rare and less common cancers.