About Us
Since 1991, we have been committed to improving outcomes for people with gastro–intestinal (GI) cancer. Our dedicated group of research and health professionals translate bold new ideas into life-saving clinical trials that help those patients as quickly as possible.
Our theory of change
Thirty years ago, a small group of medical researchers decided that the outcomes for gastro–intestinal (GI) cancer patients needed to change.
At the time, there was only one treatment option available for colorectal cancer, and many rare GI cancers had no standard treatments. They set to work, creating a network that would go on to grow exponentially over the next 30 years.
Although the public image of cancer breakthroughs is often a ‘miracle cure’, the reality is that improvements come through incremental improvements in treatments over time. Looking back, however, the amazing developments that have been made in GI cancer research are apparent.
Thirty years ago, the survival rate for colorectal cancer was just 48% – it is now 71%. As Australia’s second leading cause of cancer death, this survival increase has meant thousands more Australians are now surviving a colorectal cancer diagnosis each year.
Survival rates have increased across the board for all GI cancers: the stomach cancer survival rate has increased from 17% to 37%, and while there are still challenges to be overcome, the survival rates for oesophageal, pancreatic, liver, and gallbladder and bile duct cancer are slowly improving, to name a few.
There is still a lot of work to be done before we have achieved our goal of creating a world free from GI cancer. However, thanks to the dedication of our researchers and generous community support, momentum is building, and we are hopeful for the future.
30 Years of Achievements
Our vision
We want to create a world free of gastro–intestinal cancers.
Who are we?
The AGITG is a multidisciplinary collaborative group of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, statisticians, researchers, trial project managers and coordinators, allied healthcare professionals and community members with lived GI cancer experience. We are from and work across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Our impact is even bigger, with partners in the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia and North America.
The GI Cancer Institute is the community division of the AGITG, working across Australia to raise funds and awareness of GI cancer and clinical trials. Through regular appeals, community fundraising events, bequests, in-memory giving and philanthropic support, the GI Cancer Institute raises funds for new AGITG research and raises awareness about these terrible diseases.
Our work is made possible through our community of dedicated supporters.
Why GI cancer?
GI cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, directly affecting more than 36,929 Australians each year and claiming a devastating 51 lives each day.
GI cancer includes cancer of the oesophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and biliary tract, large bowel, small bowel, rectal and anal cancer, as well as gastro–intestinal stromal tumours (GIST) and neuroendocrine tumours (NETs).
GI cancers are devastating and treating them is a monumental challenge. Clinical trials provide hope to patients and their families for a better outcome and help progress our understanding of how best to treat these diseases.
Thanks to clinical research, the estimated five-year survival rates for all GI cancers have improved over the last 30 years. We are proud to have contributed to improving outcomes for people with GI cancer, but there is still much work to be done.
Comparison of 5-year survival rates
Our mission
We put patients with gastro–intestinal cancer at the centre of our research, saving and improving lives by accelerating the pace of discoveries that lead to cures.
How do we fulfill our purpose?
Guided by six strategic pillars, we actively aim our efforts to have meaningful impact in improving outcomes for people with GI cancer.
Build a portfolio of research to improve patient outcomes
Maximise research funding by embedding fundraising alongside industry and govenrment support
Cultivate and enhance national and international collaborations
Grow and support a diverse and multi-disciplinary membership
Pursue a culture of excellence and build capacity to support innovation
Create equitable access to research conduct and patient participation
How have we done so far?
Over more than 30 years, we have*:
research studies developed and led to address GI cancer
invested in AGITG-led research
patients given access to new treatment options in our trials
articles published in peer-reviewed journals from our research
presentations delivered on our research in conferences across the world
*Numbers are collective numbers since 1991 and accurate as of 31 December 2023. Studies counted include: clinical trials which are in start-up, open, in follow-up or completed; endorsed studies; and translational research studies.