Quiz on the importance of cancer.
Never delay seeking advice from your doctor.
This article was written by Eliza Wynn and published by the Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate on 03 October 2018.
THE Cancer Council WA has launched a FindCancer Early campaign targeting residents living in regional areas in an aim to increase the response time people take towards their cancer symptoms.
Cancer Council Western Australia’s Wheatbelt regional education officer Melissa Pickering has teamed up with local health professionals to start the conversation and spark change in the community.
Ms Pickering said the campaign urges people to talk to their doctor if they notice any unusual changes in their body.
“Regional Australians are 20 to 30 percent more likely to die within five years of a cancer diagnosis than those living in the metropolitan area, however the Find Cancer Early campaign for regional WA aims to change that,” she said.
“Unfortunately, sometimes a lack of understanding of cancer symptoms and delaying going to the doctor can lead to a poorer outcome when cancer is diagnosed.
“The fact is the earlier cancer is found the better your treatment outcomes can be.
“It’s vital that you know and understand what to look out for and see your doctor without delay when something’s not right.
“If you experience any of the following for more than four weeks – new or changed spots on your skin; problems peeing; runny poo; unexplained weight loss; any unusual pain, lump or swelling anywhere in your body; a persistent cough or breathlessness – you should go and get it checked out.
“Even more importantly, if you ever have blood in your pee or poo, or cough up blood, it’s especially essential that you don’t ignore it and go to see your doctor straight away.”
Find Cancer Early displays have been plastered around Northam accompanied by a health quiz with the an incentive for the winner taking home a Sun Smart pack.
Dr Marie Fox from the Grey St Surgery in Northam, a strong advocate and supporter of Find Cancer Early who also appears in the campaign’s television commercial, drew the quiz winner.
Liz from Northam was drawn as the winner of the Sun Smart pack.
Dr Fox said it is important to talk to your doctor about changes in your body.
“It may be nothing to worry about, but if it is something more serious your outlook really can be improved by finding any possible cancer as early as possible,” she said.
“There have been advances in the way cancer is diagnosed and treated which have led to improvements in survival.
“Never delay seeking advice from your doctor.”
For more information visit www.findcancerearly.com.au or call 13 11 20 to speak with a cancer nurses.