The silent crisis no one talks about: 'On The Down Low' podcast returns to raise awareness of one of Australia's fastest growing women's cancers

The silent crisis no one talks about: ‘On The Down Low’ podcast returns to raise awareness of one of Australia’s fastest growing women’s cancers 

Uterine cancers (including endometrial cancer) are the fastest growing women’s cancer in Australia, yet they remain largely unknown, underfunded, and under-researched. Each year, close to 3,500 women are diagnosed and tragically close to 800 women lose their lifei. Projections indicate this is significantly on the rise with more than 74,000 new cases and 8,900 deaths in the next decade¹. 

To address the silent crisis for women that is not being talked about, the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG), the peak national gynaecological cancer research organisation, is dedicating Season 2 of its award-winning podcast On The Down Low – Speaking Up About Gynaecological Cancer to uterine cancers, the most common type of gynaecological cancer. 

Hosted by journalist Alison Dance, the six-part series blends raw lived-experience stories with expert medical insights, covering symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and advocacy. Each episode encourages women to speak up, ask questions, and explore options for better outcomes—while providing hope for those who, unlike with other cancers, often lack a community to turn to. 

Although uterine cancers have traditionally been diagnosed in mature women, incidence rates are now rising sharply, particularly among women aged 30 to 50, said Professor Alison Brand AM, ANZGOG Director, Research Advisory Committee. 

“Through honest and intimate conversations, we are breaking the silence, shining a light on this urgent issue, and raising awareness of a disease that demands greater knowledge, support, and funding,” Ms Brand said. 

About Uterine Cancers: 

• Uterine cancer incidence has doubled over the past 20 years and continues to rise, increasingly affecting women aged 30–50. 

• Women in regional, remote, and rural areas, women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women face higher incidence and mortality rates. 

• Unlike breast, ovarian, blood or lung cancers, there is no dedicated support organisation for uterine cancer, leaving close to 3,500 women expected to be diagnosed this year without comprehensive survivorship and supportive care. 

• By sharing lived experiences and expert knowledge, the podcast addresses this critical gap and highlights the urgent need for research, advocacy, and systemic change. 

‘On The Down Low’ Season 2: Episode overview and launch dates: 

• S2.E1: Prevention, Risk and Early Diagnosis (from 18 Sept) – Understanding early warning signs, risk factors, and genetic predispositions 

• S2.E2: Surgery and Fertility Considerations (from 24 Sept) – Exploring surgical options and fertility-sparing treatments. 

• S2.E3: Research, Treatment and Epidemiology (from 1 Oct) – Emerging therapies, clinical trials, and rising incidence trends. 

• S2.E4: Challenges of Rare Uterine Cancers (from 8 Oct) – Highlighting rare subtypes, misdiagnosis, and gaps in research. 

• S2.E5: Survivorship and Rehabilitation (from 15 Oct) – Addressing physical, emotional, and identity recovery, alongside tailored support needs. 

• S2.E6: Advocacy: What Women Need to Know (from 22 Oct) – Amplifying patient voices, tackling stigma, and driving policy and funding reform. 

Season 2 is produced by ANZGOG, with the generous support of GSK and Eisai. Listen via Apple Podcasts [link] and Spotify [link]. 

Help Break the Silence: By listening, sharing, and starting conversations about uterine cancers, you can help raise awareness, advocate for equitable support, and drive urgently needed change. Learn more at anzgog.org.au.  

Content Warning: This podcast contains personal stories. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are concerned about your health, contact a healthcare professional or the Cancer Council Information Line on 13 11 20.  

#OnTheDownLowPodcast #UterineCancer #EndometrialCancer #GynaecologicalCancer  

ENDS