Rare and less common (RLC) cancers

Having a cancer that is rare or less common may bring specific challenges. We offer information and support for people affected by rare and less common cancers, including diagnosis, tests, treatment, and resources.

Download PDF

What are rare or less common cancers?

1 in 3 cancers that are diagnosed will be called a rare or less common cancer. Find out the reasons why certain cancers are classified this way, and how many people they affect.

Getting diagnosed

Find out about the tests for RLC cancers, how they are diagnosed and staged, and who will provide your care.

Treating RLC cancers

Depending on the RLC cancer type or how advanced it is, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.

Coping with an RLC diagnosis

Learn about the challenges in coping with an RLC diagnosis and how to manage these.

Questions for your doctorIt is important to ask your doctors questions, especially if you feel confused or uncertain. Here's a list of questions you may want to ask.

What type of cancer do I have? Why is it considered a rare or less common cancer?
Where is the cancer and has it spread? If so, where to? How fast is it growing?
Can you explain the test results to me?
What are my treatment options? (See Treatment options for more questions to ask about treatment.)
Is there a patient organisation or support group for the type of cancer I have?
How many patients with this type of cancer have you treated before?
Can you give me an idea of my prognosis?
How often will I need check-ups?
If the cancer returns, how will I know? What further treatment could I have?

Rare and less common cancer fact sheetsDownload fact sheets on different types of RLC cancers

Podcast for people affected by cancer

Listen now

Need to talk?

Call 13 11 20 to talk to a health professional Or email us your questions

This information was last updated in August 2024. See who reviewed this content.

Dr Damien Kee, Medical Oncologist, Austin Health and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Clinical Research Fellow, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, VIC; Emeritus Professor Phyllis Butow, Psychologist, The University of Sydney, NSW; Alison Danis, Consumer; Dr Michelle Harrison, Medical Oncologist, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Jess Pike, Senior Social Worker, Westmead Hospital, NSW; Trish Taylor, Consumer; Lesley Woods, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council WA.

View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.