Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026
09:49
Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
Published on: July 5, 2019
Paediatric and Adult Solid Tumours Exhibiting NTRK Gene Fusions in Australia, 2020-2044: A Population-Based
Qingwei Luo1, Yoon-Jung Kang1,2, Jeff Cuff3,4
1The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, and Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Cancer Medicine
|May 20, 2026
Summary
Cancer prevalence in Australia linked to NTRK gene fusions is projected to rise, impacting healthcare planning. Projections show increasing numbers of paediatric and adult cases, particularly advanced disease, by 2044.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Health Economics
Background:
- TRK inhibitors offer improved outcomes for NTRK fusion-positive cancers but are costly.
- Accurate prevalence data is crucial for healthcare planning and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To project the long-term prevalence of NTRK gene fusion-positive cancers in Australia until 2044.
- To inform healthcare planning and budget forecasts related to TRK inhibitor subsidies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national cancer incidence and survival data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare and NSW Enduring Cancer Data Linkage (1982-2019).
- Validated statistical methods were used to project 1-year to 5-year cancer prevalence for all stages, advanced disease at diagnosis, and advanced disease post-progression.
- Prevalence was estimated for paediatric cancers, adult solid cancers, specific cancer types, and subtypes relevant to TRK inhibitor subsidies.
Main Results:
- Projected increase in NTRK gene fusion-positive solid cancer prevalence in Australia by 2044, driven by population growth and aging.
- For 2-year prevalence (2019-2044): paediatric all stages +32.5% (80 to 106), adult all stages +50.4% (645 to 970).
- Advanced disease prevalence increases: paediatric at diagnosis +21.1% (19 to 23), adult at diagnosis +41.1% (185 to 261); paediatric post-progression +36.4% (22 to 30), adult post-progression +63.6% (110 to 180).
Conclusions:
- Projected increases in NTRK gene fusion-positive cancer prevalence necessitate proactive healthcare planning.
- Findings support budget forecasts for cancer treatments, including various government subsidy scenarios for TRK inhibitors.
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