PROSTATE cancer has emerged as the highest diagnosed cancer on the Gold Coast in shocking, new statistics released by Cancer Council Queensland’s Research Centre.

Breast cancer had the second-highest incidence across the city and the biggest killer is still lung cancer.

Cancer Council spokeswoman Katie Clift said about 3400 Gold Coasters were diagnosed with cancer every year and about 1000 died from the disease.

“About 560 local men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and 88 are dying from the disease,” she said.

“Melanoma is the second most common cancer in local men with about 290 new cases diagnosed each year, followed by bowel cancer.”

Ms Clift said about 420 local women were diagnosed annually with breast cancer, which claimed the lives of 70.

Latest research showed the five most commonly diagnosed cancers on the Gold Coast were prostate cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, bowel cancer and lung cancer.

“Lung cancer remains the city’s biggest cancer killer and about 230 locals die from the disease each year,” she said.

John Caldwell, convener of the Gold Coast North Prostate Cancer Support and Awareness Group, said the statistics were no surprise.

“A contributing factor is the male reluctance to have a test for prostate cancer,” he said.

“Women are happy to discuss breast cancer and checks but prostate cancer is not something men want to talk about in the pub.”

He said there was a need for more awareness of the issue.

“Another factor that contributes to the high incidence of prostate cancer is that treatment is not favourable for most men and it comes with a side effect,” he said.

He also called for early testing if there was a family history of the disease.

Ms Clift urged Gold Coasters to play their part in reducing cancer risks.

“Gold Coasters should participate in recommended cancer screening, quit smoking, eat healthily, exercise, maintain a healthy weight, stay SunSmart and limit alcohol intake,” she warned.