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1300 781 500
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[email protected]

Resource Centre
Level 8, 255 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Open 10am – 5pm Mon, Wed, Thurs
(closed public holidays)

Blood Cancer Awareness Month

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month. According to the Leukaemia Foundation, blood cancer has increased by 47% in Australia in the past 10 years and 51 Australians are diagnosed with blood cancer every day.  

What is blood cancer?

Blood cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the blood-forming tissues, such as the bone marrow, or in the blood itself. It can also start in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. Unlike other cancers that form lumps or tumors, blood cancer affects how blood cells are produced and function.

Types of blood cancer:

  • Leukemia: This type of blood cancer starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. It leads to the production of a large number of abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells and can cause problems with infection, bleeding, and anemia.
  • Lymphoma: This cancer affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes and other organs like the spleen and tonsils. Lymphoma starts in the lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) and can form lumps in lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
  • Myeloma: This cancer affects the plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell found in the bone marrow. Myeloma leads to the production of abnormal plasma cells that can damage bones and affect blood cell production.

Symptoms

The symptoms of blood cancer can vary depending on the type, but common ones include: 

Blood cancer symptoms Unusual bleeding or bruising. Bone pain. Feeling tired or weak. Fever and night sweats. Swollen lymph nodes or lumps. Frequent infections. Unexplained weight loss. Infographic with icons representing the different symptoms.

Detection

Doctors use several tests to diagnose blood cancer, including: 

  • Blood tests: To check the levels of different blood cells and look for abnormalities. 
  • Bone marrow biopsy: To examine the bone marrow for cancer cells. 
  • Imaging tests: Like x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to see if cancer has spread. 

Treatment

Treatment for blood cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. Common treatments include: 

  • Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs that kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. 
  • Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. 
  • Stem cell transplant: Replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. 
  • Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific parts of cancer cells or their environment. 
  • Immunotherapy: Boosting the body’s immune system to help fight cancer. 

Support, resources, further information

Leukaemia Foundation – offers comprehensive support services including practical and emotional care, accommodation, financial assistance, and counselling for blood cancer patients.

Myeloma Australia – supports individuals affected by multiple myeloma by providing patient support, a helpline, and educational resources.

Lymphoma Australia – provides patient and family support, educational resources, and a helpline to those impacted by Lymphoma.

Counterpart – Peer Support Volunteers Talk to a woman who has experienced cancer and has been trained to listen and support others experiencing cancer.   

Counterpart – cancer types Visit the blood cancer section of this page for links to further information and resources. 

What’s new in September

What’s new in September, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Opportunities and actions to improve care for endometrial cancer

The Victorian Integrated Cancer Services (VICS) have published two key outputs from their recent consultation with clinical experts and people affected by endometrial cancer. An assessment report describes barriers and enablers to delivering optimal care, highlights patient experiences, and identifies 22 unwarranted variations in treatment and outcomes across Victoria. The Endometrial Cancer Action Register lists 32 practical actions that the VICS, their member health services, and other partners can take to address the identified variations and improve quality and equity of care.

You can find both documents, with a video of the consultation co-chairs introducing the action register, on the VICS website.

Have your say: Upper GI cancer support survey

Pancare Foundation is inviting people affected by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers—including oesophageal, stomach, liver, biliary, or pancreatic cancer—to take part in an anonymous online survey. Whether you’re a patient, family member, friend, or carer, your feedback will help shape future support services and resources. The survey takes 15–30 minutes and closes at 5pm on 8 September.

Read more and take part via the survey website.

New research sheds light on breast cancer treatment resistance

Scientists at the Garvan Institute have discovered why some common breast cancers stop responding to treatment. They found that a natural stress response in cells—called the JNK pathway—can be switched off in certain cancers. When this happens, treatments that usually stop cancer from growing don’t work as well.

This discovery could help doctors predict which patients might not respond to current therapies and offer them better options. It’s a step toward more personalised treatment for people with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, which makes up about 70% of all breast cancer cases.

Read the full report on the news and resources page on the Garvan Institute website.

Share your experience: Help researchers understand cancer anxiety

Researchers from the University of Melbourne are inviting participants to take part in a study that explores how psychological factors such as personality traits, emotions, and beliefs may contribute to anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. The study focuses on individuals living with cancer, multiple sclerosis, or an eating disorder, and compares results with those who do not have a chronic illness. Participation involves completing a series of confidential online questionnaires over several months. As a thank you, participants will have the chance to win e-gift cards after each stage of the study. Questionnaires can be completed on a phone or computer, and all data will remain confidential.

Learn more or take part on the Melbourne University study webpage.

Online course for health professionals: Cancer care for older adults

The University of Melbourne is running an online course designed to help health professionals better support older adults diagnosed with cancer. The course covers key topics like communication, treatment planning, psychosocial support, and advanced care needs. It’s ideal for anyone working with older patients, including nurses, GPs, and carers. What’s more, the course is accredited by the Australian College of Nursing and RACGP, offering practical tools and insights to improve care and confidence when supporting older people affected by cancer.

Learn more on the Future Learn website.

Q&A – Side effects of breast cancer treatment

Breast Cancer Trials is hosting a free online Q&A on Wednesday 24th September, 5:00–6:30 PM (AEST), exploring the side effects of breast cancer treatment and the latest research aimed at improving quality of life. Led by a panel of experts and moderated by journalist Annabel Crabb, the session will cover clinical trials, strategies for managing physical and emotional side effects, and insights from lived experience. Open to patients, carers, and health professionals.

Register via the Breast Cancer Trials website.

 

What’s new in August

What’s new in August, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Navigating Fertility & Menopause During and after Treatment webinar 

Join Lymphoma Australia on Wednesday, 20th August from 4:00pm to 5:30pm (AEST) for a free educational webinar tailored for patients, families, and carers affected by lymphoma. This session will explore fertility preservation for both men and women, how to access relevant services, and ways to manage menopausal symptoms during and after treatment.

Hear from leading specialists:

Aisling Murphy – Clinical Midwife Consultant at the Royal Women’s Hospital, with expertise in fertility preservation and women’s health.

Dr Genia Rozen – Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, focusing on medical fertility preservation and the impacts of cancer treatment.

Professor Kate Stern – Head of Reproductive Services at the Royal Women’s Hospital and Clinical Director at Melbourne IVF, with extensive experience in public fertility services and reproductive research.Read more and register on the Lymphoma Australia website.

End-of-Life Essentials video

A new animated video by End-of-Life Essentials at Flinders University helps equip healthcare professionals with the tools to respond to grief with care and confidence.

Developed with bereavement care experts, and shaped by a powerful personal story, this short video is a gentle reminder of the impact we can have in life’s hardest moments.Watch this video on the Vimeo platform

Think Pink Foundation free support

Think Pink Foundation offers a wide range of free programs and services to support individuals affected by breast cancer. These programs are designed to provide emotional, physical, and practical support and are available to patients, families, and carers at any stage of the breast cancer journey.
Some of the key programs on offer include:

      • Support Groups for women, men, and carers
      • Wellness Programs like yoga, pilates, meditation, and massage
      • Health Services including breast care nurse consultations and wig fittings
      • Educational Workshops and cooking demos
      • Special Events like the Day of Indulgence

Most programs are available online, making them accessible from home. To discover all programs visit the Think Pink Foundation website.

Webinars for cancer nurses

The Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) offers a professional development webinar series called Tune in Tuesday, designed to provide practical, interactive learning for cancer nurses. These webinars are free for CNSA members and cost $30 + GST per session for non-members. Each session contributes 1 CPD point and is available on-demand for members through the CNSA Member Hub, making it easy to access valuable insights and strategies for multidisciplinary cancer care.

August webinars topics include:

        • 12 August – Beyond Tired: Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue
        • 14 August – Cancer Nurses Day Q&A with HESTA Nurse of the Year winners
        • 19 August – Fertility and Pregnancy-Associated Cancer

      Learn more and register on the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia website.

Lung Cancer Screening Education Hub 

Everything health professionals need to know about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program roll out, all in one place. Access free recordings from our Lung Cancer Screening Symposium, as well as an array of free resources. Be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to deliver effective, equitable, and culturally safe lung cancer screening and care across diverse communities.

Visit the VCCC website to access the resources.

New Energy Assistance Program 

Victorian health professionals, including GPs and nurses, can now refer patients to the Energy Assistance Program – a free initiative supporting individuals whose health is impacted by living in cold or hot environments. The program offers tailored energy advice and support to help patients live in safer, healthier homes.

Referrals are made via a short online form; There is no cost to the patient or the referring provider. The program is funded by the Victorian Government until December 2025 (with potential extension to December 2026).

Access referral tools, posters, and clinical resources in the VCOSS Warm Winter Digital Resource Pack.

Read the health risks of energy hardship, with supporting research and information on medical concessions via the Health and Energy Hardship Information Page on the VCOSS website.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

With the July workshop now fully booked, Cancer Council Victoria will be delivering the same workshop in October. Strengthen your communication skills with the Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop, delivered in person by Cancer Council Victoria. This RACP-approved workshop is for trainees and staff to practice responding to emotions using simulated patient scenarios. You’ll receive personalised feedback and build confidence in managing sensitive conversations with patients, families, and carers.

Visit the VCCC Alliance website for more information and bookings.

 

 

Cancer support service opens with a smile in Geelong

Victoria’s first peer support hub for women and gender diverse people living with cancer opened to many smiles and conversations at the Eastern Hub in McKillop Street this week. 

The new Counterpart Geelong Peer Support Hub welcomed 20 guests to morning tea, including peer support volunteers and the expert staff from Counterpart on Tuesday, ahead of its official opening next month. 

Counterpart Manager Cindy Van Rooy said the Victorian-first regional peer support hub will provide people in the Geelong area opportunities to meet with local volunteers who are trained to provide peer support for women and gender diverse people (and their carers) and make connections in what is often a very difficult time.  

“The Counterpart Geelong Peer Support Hub will be open monthly, and our trained peer support volunteers will be available to chat with people living with a cancer diagnosis about their experiences,” Ms Van Rooy said. 

“The volunteers are all local women who have had a cancer diagnosis and know just what it’s like to have such a life-changing experience. 

“Our next hub day will be on Tuesday 26 August from 10.30am, here at the Eastern Hub in McKillop Street again, and we look forward to welcoming more people to access this free support service.”  

Local Geelong peer support volunteer Trish Ferrier said it is a privilege to support women following their cancer diagnosis, as she understands how isolating it can be, especially in regional Victoria. 

“I have been a peer support volunteer at Counterpart for eight years and the opportunity to support women in my Geelong community is something very important to me,” Trish said. 

“I really encourage people to come along for a chat and make some connections to help them feel supported, and less alone.” 

Beginning in August, the Counterpart Geelong Peer Support Hub will meet monthly as a ‘drop-in’ service for women who have, or had, any type of cancer and their partner, family or friends. 

Counterpart is a service of Women’s Health Victoria and the peer support hub project is funded by the Victorian Government.  

Bridge of Support returns to Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

We’re excited to announce that Counterpart’s Bridge of Support (BOS) program has resumed at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. This vital program offers peer support to women living with breast and gynaecological cancers, right where they receive their care. 

Bridge of Support is free and confidential, and connects women who are currently undergoing cancer treatment with trained Peer Support Volunteers, women who have experienced cancer themselves. These volunteers offer empathy, understanding, and a listening ear, helping others navigate the emotional and practical challenges of a cancer diagnosis. 

We are proud to partner with Peter Mac to bring this meaningful support to women at their Parkville location. From 1 May, peer support is available on-site every Thursday. 

Peer Support Volunteer Bridget said “It’s a great opportunity when women are in the day chemo chair – they have time to talk, if they want to. We can see how peer support complements clinical care.” 

With this relaunch, Counterpart’s Peer Support Volunteers are now providing in-person support across four major Melbourne hospitals: 

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre – every Thursday
Royal Women’s Hospital – every Thursday
Royal Melbourne Hospital – every Thursday
Sunshine Hospital – every Wednesday 

We’re grateful to our dedicated volunteers and hospital partners for making this compassionate program possible.  

To learn more about our Peer Support Volunteers visit Meet our volunteers.  

If you would like to access support visit our How can I speak with a Peer Support Volunteer page. 

 

Mary Macheras Magias, Bridge Of Support Coordinator with Peer Support Volunteers Rosanne and Emma outside Peter Mac.

Pictured (L-R): Mary Macheras Magias, Bridge Of Support Coordinator with Peer Support Volunteers Rosanne and Emma.

What’s new in July

What’s new in July, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Join the living with NETs July online program

Starting Tuesday 15 July 2025, this free 4-week virtual program is designed to support neuroendocrine cancer patients and carers. Each weekly session runs for 2 hours (1.30–3.30pm AEST) and offers expert-led education on neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including tests, treatments, wellness strategies, and coping techniques. Participants will gain knowledge, build confidence in self-advocacy, and connect in a safe, supportive environment. Recordings will not be available to ensure privacy.

For more information and to register visit the Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia website.

Study: Inclusive exercise care for LGBTQIA+ people affected by cancer

This study aims to gather the perspectives of LGBTQIA+ people with lived experience of cancer on an e-learning module designed for exercise oncology professionals. The module focuses on trauma-informed care and aims to help professionals understand how trauma can affect a person’s engagement with healthcare and exercise services. The 20-minute training introduces core concepts and includes a case study featuring an LGBTQIA+ individual, highlighting the impact of stigma and discrimination. While the module offers initial guidance and links to further resources, it does not provide in-depth content tailored to LGBTQIA+ clients. Researchers are now seeking feedback to assess the module’s relevance, appropriateness, and potential impact, and to identify ways to improve its value for the community.

Read more and take part on the University of Melbourne website.

Lung cancer screening is now available

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is a new national health program that launched on July 1. It uses low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer in people at high risk, aiming to detect cancer early and save lives.
People eligible for free screening include those who:

  • Are between 50 and 70 years old.
  • Show no signs or symptoms of lung cancer (e.g., coughing up blood or shortness of breath).
  • Have a history of at least 30 pack-years of cigarette smoking.
  • Are either currently smoking or quit within the past 10 years.

For full details visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website 

Melanoma treatment approved on PBS

Australians with high-risk Stage III melanoma will soon have subsidised access to pre-surgery combination immunotherapy through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), following its approval by the PBAC. This marks a major shift in cancer care, with clinical trial results showing significantly improved survival when treatment is given before surgery. The international NADINA trial, co-led by Melanoma Institute Australia, demonstrated the life-saving potential of this approach, setting a new global standard.

With Australia having the highest melanoma rates in the world, this PBS listing ensures equitable access to a breakthrough therapy.

Read more on the Melanoma Institute Australia website.

Optimal Cancer Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People Learning Program

Explore the free Optimal Cancer Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People Learning Program, an online, culturally grounded course. Learn through the stories of three fictional patients — Daphne, Uncle Brian and Daniel — across four interactive, real-world modules.

The course follows the 2024 Optimal Care Pathway from Cancer Australia to guide culturally safe, patient-centred cancer care. It supports Aboriginal Health Workers and healthcare professionals in improving cancer care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Whether you’re in primary care or coordinating treatment, this course offers practical strategies to improve cancer outcomes.

Find out more and enrol in this short short course on the VCCC Alliance website.

An Introduction to Supportive Care in Cancer course

Discover the vital role of supportive care in cancer treatment with the free online course An Introduction to Supportive Care in Cancer. Designed for healthcare professionals, this course offers practical tools to screen, discuss, and address the supportive care needs of people with cancer. Guided by insights from those with lived experience, you’ll explore key supportive care domains, including social determinants of health. You’ll also learn strategies to deliver care that is culturally safe and truly patient-centred.

Developed by WeCan and the VCCC Alliance, this course empowers you to make a meaningful impact in cancer care.

To learn more and enrol in this short course visit the VCC Alliance webpage, Supportive Care in Cancer.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

Strengthen your communication skills with the Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop, delivered in person by Cancer Council Victoria. This RACP-approved workshop is for trainees and staff to practice responding to emotions using simulated patient scenarios. You’ll receive personalised feedback and build confidence in managing sensitive conversations with patients, families, and carers.

Date and time: 28 July 2025, 9.00am–1.00pm
Location: Room 1, Level 13, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Victoria
Limited to 8 participants per session – register now to secure your place.

Visit the VCCC Alliance website for more information and bookings.

 

 

What’s new in June

What’s new in June, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

New and tailored resources for medically induced menopause

Inherited Cancers Australia and Jean Hailes for Women’s Health have joined forces to create evidence-based resources to provide clarity, guidance and support for medically induced menopause.

If you’re navigating medically induced menopause or preparing for a treatment or surgery that may lead to it, these resources can help you understand what to expect, manage symptoms and find the support you deserve.

Explore the new medically induced menopause resources on the Inherited Cancers Australia website.

Lived experience survey

Rare Cancers Australia (RCA) is inviting adults across the country – whether you are currently living with cancer, have experienced it in the past, or have cared for someone who has – to take part in their Cancer Lived Experience Survey.

Your voice is vital in helping to understand the unique challenges faced by people with rare and less common cancers, including limited treatment options and high out-of-pocket costs. The insights gathered will guide improvements in support services, influence policy change, and ensure no one is disadvantaged by their cancer type, postcode or financial situation. The survey takes just 20 minutes, is completely anonymous, and can be paused and resumed at any time.

Visit the RCA website by 15 June to read more and take part in the survey.

Look Good Feel Better upcoming virtual sessions

LGFB Virtual Workshops are live, interactive sessions that allow people undergoing cancer treatment to connect with others in similar situations—all from the comfort of their own home. June sessions include Qigong, meditation, skincare and makeup, and selfcare.

View the June flyer here and visit the Look Good Feel Better website to register.

Have you created a Cancer Mind Care Plan?

Cancer Mind Care is a free online resource supporting the mental wellbeing of people diagnosed with cancer, their support people and healthcare professionals. It offers a personalised Cancer Mind Plan based on how you’re feeling, with expert-developed strategies and resources.

The platform is completely confidential, storing no personal information, and provides a safe first step toward emotional support. Developed in 2021 by Western & Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS), Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Gippsland Regional Integrated Cancer Service (GRICS), Cancer Mind Care is grounded in both clinical expertise and lived experience.

Visit the Cancer Mind Care website to take the survey and discover supportive resources.

Addressing Challenges Faced by LGBTIQA+ Individuals Affected by Cancer

Western & Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS) is seeking participants to take part in their second-round consultation survey to help prioritise service improvement initiatives that address the specific needs of LGBTIQA+ individuals affected by cancer.  Input in this survey will guide the design of projects that reduce inequities and better align with the needs of LGBTIQA+ patients and member health services.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, person with lived experience, carer, or community ally — your voice matters. You don’t need to be affiliated with a WCMICS health service to participate.

Visit the survey website to read more and take part.

What’s new in May

What’s new in May, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Melanoma webinar series for patients and carers

MPA/MIA Melanoma Community Webinar SeriesJoin Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) & Melanoma Patients Australia (MPA) for an informative series of three live Tuesday evening webinars (7.00pm-8.00pm AEST) for patients with melanoma and their carers.

These free webinars will provide you with a rare opportunity to hear from an MIA expert and an MPA community member as they focus on a different topic of interest each week. Each session, facilitated on Zoom will conclude with a Q&A panel discussion.

Webinar 1: ‘Genetic testing for melanoma’ – 10 June
Webinar 2: ‘Understanding melanoma drug therapy & the new era of neoadjuvant’ – 17 June
Webinar 3: ‘A deep dive into sunscreen’ – 24 June

More information and registration via the Melanoma Institute Australia website

Help improve care for people with head and neck cancer

Study: head and neck cancer care. Share your experience to help improve services for people with head and neck cancers.

Do you, or someone you care for, have an experience with head and neck cancer? The Victorian Integrated Cancer Services (VICS) invite you to contribute your voice to their 2025 consultation on variations in head and neck cancer care.

Your input can help identify where services could be improved for people affected by head and neck cancer, and their carers, by joining an online focus group. Your insights will be presented at a VICS Optimal Care Summit in October where experts and people affected by cancer will discuss actions to improve quality and equity of care across Victoria.

If you’re interested in participating, please read and fill in the survey via the survey website.

 

New research: AI in breast screening

'New research: AI in breast screening.' graphic of 5 human icons, 4 are maroon and one is a peachy pink. 'one in five people might stop participating in breast screening if they don't like how AI is being used.'AI is reshaping healthcare—including how we screen for breast cancer. Tools like AI-assisted mammography reading could make screening faster and more accurate.

However, a study conducted by the Daffodil Centre and University of Sydney shows that if people don’t trust or understand how AI works in healthcare, they may opt out entirely.

View the infographic of stats via the researchers website or read the full report via the American Cancer Society Journals online library.

 

 

Have your say – help inform your Local Health Service Network

'Have your say: Share your experience and priorities for healthcare in your community' with 2 speech bubbles on the side.Your story can help shape the future of healthcare in Victoria.

The Victorian Department of Health is inviting Victorians to share their experiences accessing healthcare – and it’s vital that women’s voices are heard. Too often, women’s health needs have been overlooked. This is a real opportunity to help create a system that works better for everyone.

Your feedback will help shape Local Health Service Networks, launching in July 2025, which will bring hospital services together to deliver more coordinated and accessible care across the state.
Whether you’re a community member or healthcare worker, your experience over the past 3 years matters – and your response is anonymous.

The survey takes just 10 minutes and closes on 8 June. Learn more and take part on the Engage Victoria website.

EOI – National Steering Group for the Empowering Regional Cancer Care

Expressions Of Interest: Join the National Steering Group - Empowering Regional Cancer Care in Underserved Populations project. VCCC Alliance are currently inviting Expressions of Interest from individuals across Australia to join the National Steering Group for the Empowering Regional Cancer Care in Underserved Populations project. They are particularly seeking consumer advocates, allied health professionals, nurses, medical staff, researchers, and clinicians who are passionate about shaping and guiding the educational needs of Australia’s regional, rural and remote cancer workforce.

Submissions close 31 May. To see what is involved and to apply visit the VCCC Alliance website.

 

 

VCCC webinars recordings for health professionals

'VCCC webinars recordings for health professionals: Lung cancer: breaking barriers, building support. Profits vs people.'VCCC have added 2 recently recorded webinars to their library. See details on them below.

Watch the Lung cancer care – Breaking barriers, building support webinar to gain valuable insights and learn how we can enhance the lives of those affected by lung cancer. Key topics include the Lung Cancer Specialist Nurse Telehealth Program, the importance of supportive care services, the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, and more.

The Profits vs people webinar provides an understanding of how various commercial sectors impact public health beyond just tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods. Discover the broader commercial determinants of health, such as pharmaceutical patents, housing, and environmental pollution, and learn about the political challenges in addressing these issues. This session will provide strategies for health professionals, advocates, and others to prioritise people and the planet over profits.

To access upcoming webinars visit the VCCC webinar webpage.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

For health professionals: Responding to emotions in cancer workshpp'Join Cancer Council Victoria’s one-day, in-person workshop designed for health professionals to enhance their communication skills with cancer patients. Participants will explore emotional reactions to cancer, recognise and respond to emotions effectively, and receive personalised feedback in a safe environment.  The workshop will be held on 3 July and 28 July (same content).

Visit the VCCC website to read more and register.

Oesophageal cancer: symptoms, reduce risk, and support options

Oesophageal cancer, while not as widely discussed as some other types of cancer, is a serious health condition that affects many Australians each year. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and treatments available can make a world of difference in early detection and improving outcomes. The 5-year survival rate for oesophageal cancer, though significantly lower than many other cancers, has improved in recent years, rising from 12% in 1982-1986 to 25% in 2017-2021. (Cancer Council Australia, June 2024)

What is oesophageal cancer?

The oesophagus is the tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach. Oesophageal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lining of the oesophagus. These cells can form a tumour that can interfere with swallowing and, in more severe cases, spread to other parts of the body.

There are two main types of oesophageal cancer:

  • Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type in Western countries, including Australia. It usually starts in the lower part of the oesophagus near the stomach and is often linked to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: This type typically starts in the upper and middle part of the oesophagus and is more common in countries with high rates of tobacco and alcohol consumption.

Prevention: how can you reduce the risk?

There are some risk factors for oesophageal cancer which can be modified.

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
  • Manage acid reflux
  • Eat a healthy diet

Taking these steps may not prevent you developing cancer, and some people with multiple risk factors may not ever develop oesophageal cancer. Cancer Australia has more information about risk factors for oesophageal cancer (Cancer Australia, September 2024).

What symptoms should you watch for?

Oesophageal cancer can develop slowly, and the early stages often do not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, you may begin to notice the following signs:

oesophageal cancer symptoms graphic. 'Painful, difficulty swallowing. Cough or hoarseness of voice. Ongoing sore throat. Chest pain. New heartburn. Unexplained fatigue. Vomit with blood.'

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Early detection is key to improving the chances of successful treatment. (Cancer Council Australia, February 2025)

Where can you get get support if you are diagnosed?

Pancare Foundation – provides in-depth information on various aspects of oesophageal cancer from symptoms, diagnosis and beyond. They also offer supportive resources and practical guidance to help patients and their loved ones navigate the challenges associated with this type of cancer. Pancare offer support with specialist nurses and the PanSupport Helpline. Their patient handbook is a helpful resource.

GI Cancer Institute – Information, resources, support group directory, and links, including details on current clinical trials.

Counterpart Peer Support Volunteers – Talk to a woman who has experienced cancer and is trained to support others experiencing cancer.

What’s new in April

What’s new in April, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Out with Cancer – LGBTIQ+ cancer survivorship and care webinar

'VCCC webinar: out with cancer - LGBTIQ+ cancer survivorship and care' text on purple background with image of rainbow flag and stethoscope on top.This online event, presented by Dr Rosalie Power, will explore the unique challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals in cancer care. The findings, based on the Out with Cancer study, are drawn from surveys of 430 LGBTIQ+ cancer patients, 131 informal carers and 357 healthcare professionals.

The session will highlight the alarming levels of distress among LGBTIQ+ cancer patients, which are 3 to 6 times higher than the general population, due to discrimination, minority stress and gaps in care. Despite these barriers, LGBTIQ+ individuals demonstrate remarkable resilience. The webinar will also discuss systemic changes and actionable recommendations to improve the inclusivity of cancer care, while sharing practical resources developed in collaboration with cancer organisations and LGBTIQ+ communities to promote cultural safety for both LGBTIQ+ people and their carers.

Register to attend this session which will be live on 28 April at 1.00pm–2.00pm via the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre Alliance website.

STUDY: improving cancer care in rural and remote health services

'Your story could help improve cancer care.' 'Are you or someone you care for, affected by cancer and live in rural or remote Australia?' with Deakin University logoIf you or someone you care for has experienced cancer treatment in rural or remote Australia, Deakin University and Equitable Cancer Outcomes across Rural and Remote Australia (ECORRA) would appreciate hearing your story. With a genuine rural and remote focus, ECORRA is one of Australia’s leading research groups dedicated to reducing geographical inequities in all areas of cancer care. Taking part in this study would help in their aim at improving cancer care in rural and remote health services.

Learn more about this work on the ECORRA Deakin website or go direct to the study via the Deakin survey website.

 

Two new Optimal Care Pathways under development

New optimal care pathways in developmentCancer Australia is pleased to announce the development of two new Optimal Care Pathways (OCPs): an OCP for older people with cancer, and an OCP for people with rare and less common cancers.
OCPs are guidelines that set the standard for cancer care, ensuring that it’s consistent, safe, high-quality and based on the best available evidence throughout all stages of cancer treatment.

To develop the OCP for older people with cancer, Cancer Australia will be partnering with the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA). For more information visit Optimal Care Pathway for Older People with Cancer | COSA or contact [email protected]

Cancer Australia is partnering with Rare Cancers Australia (RCA) to develop the OCP for people with rare and less common cancers. For more information, contact RCA at [email protected] or visit Contact us – Rare Cancers Australia.

iCare – support for upper gastrointestinal and hepato-pancreato-biliary cancers

STUDY: iCare portal, a resource for people with upper gastrointestinal or hepato-pancreatic-biliary cancer.iCare is a new interactive web-based portal to improve symptom management and wellbeing for people diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal or hepato-pancreato-biliary cancers and their carers. This personalised program offers a comprehensive selection of interactive modules and provides information and access to resources needed during a cancer diagnosis. Currently seeking input from those who would use the platform, the iCare portal is being trialed among people living with upper gastrointestinal or hepato-pancreato-biliary cancer.

To read more about taking part in this study and to register visit the iCare website today.

 

Lung Cancer Screening Symposium

Text: 'Lung Cancer Screening Symposium' on blue background with graphic of lungs behind.

The Victoria Comprehensive Cancer Centre’s (VCCC) Lung Cancer Screening Symposium is designed to equip health professionals, cancer care advocates and policymakers for the launch of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program in July 2025. This event will provide valuable insights, collaborative strategies, and practical tools to ensure equitable, person-centred screening and follow-up care in metropolitan, regional, and rural areas. Join the symposium to contribute to the nationwide effort to deliver best-practice lung cancer screening and follow-up care. 

Be inspired by expert speakers and engaging panel discussions, led by leaders from the VCCC Alliance and professionals from primary care, lung cancer care, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. The symposium will take place on 23 May 2025, from 9.00am to 5.00pm, and is available in a hybrid format. Visit the VCCC event listing for more information.

 

 

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