Cancer 2015 is one of the world’s largest prospective, population-based cancer genomic cohorts. The major aim is to re-classify cancers molecularly, using next generation gene sequencing techniques, to promote more targeted treatment of cancer patients and improve patient survival and outcomes. It will also necessitate development of sustainable, economically sound models for future cancer care that will involve the key partners in health: government, clinicians and researchers, the pharmaceutical industry, and the community.

 Phase 1 (pilot) of the study commenced in June 2011 with the objective being to recruit 1,000 new cancer patients (solid tumours only) independent of cancer histopathology type, representing both metropolitan and regional health services across Victoria.  The pilot has achieved recruitment in excess of 1000 patients to date from five hospitals (Peter MacCallum, Cabrini, Royal Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool).

 This presentation will present an overview of the data and progress to date, including patient accrual statistics and demographics and recruitment of tumour types relative to Victorian cancer incidence.  Four further presentations will present early insights on real-time next generation sequencing for mutational profiling of tumour samples; the identification, quantification and modification of genetic risk; health economic analyses on the costs and benefits of cancer care in the genomic era, and; a global perspective on genomic cohorts and their clinical and research value.