With one in three Queensland women and one in two Queensland men now likely to develop cancer in their lifetime, it’s a health issue close to the heart of many residents.
More answers about cancer, its causes and how best to treat it are being found thanks to the money raised by the Cancer Council’s fundraiser, Daffodil Day (27 August 2010).
According to the Cancer Council, Daffodil Day is the largest fundraising event of its kind in the southern hemisphere and now raises around $8 million each year for cancer research, education and support services.
Breast cancer for females and prostate cancer for males are the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Queensland, according to The Cancer Council Queensland.
Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt said Daffodil Day is a timely reminder for women to call 13 20 50 and make an appointment with BreastScreen Queensland.
“All women aged between 50 and 69 are strongly encouraged to have a free breastscreen every two years, as 75 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50,” Mr Pitt said.
“Daffodil Day is also a great opportunity to highlight cancer prevention for men – particularly prostate cancer.
“It is common for men over 50 to have symptoms related to urinary flow, urgency and control, and in most cases these symptoms will not be prostate cancer but they should be checked by a general practitioner,” Mr Pitt said.
“Early diagnosis is the key to getting better outcomes and potentially curing particular types of cancer.”
Mr Pitt said all Queenslanders should also be aware of the dangers of unsafe sun exposure.
“One in twenty Queenslanders is predicted to develop melanoma in their lifetime and if detected early, skin cancers can be successfully treated,” Mr Pitt said.
“The key way to reduce skin cancer incidence is through sun safe behaviour to reduce exposure to ultra-violet (UV) radiation from the sun.”
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s Australia’s Health 2010 report, the number of new cancer cases in Australia almost doubled from 53,888 in 1986 to 104,592 in 2006.
Both the Queensland and Australian Governments are committed to the fight against cancer.
The Federal Government has committed $164.29 million over four years for the development of Regional Cancer Services at Townsville, Mt Isa, Toowoomba, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, and Rockhampton.
In addition, the Bligh Government has committed $194.45 million over four years for staff, equipment and operation of these Regional Cancer Centres and metropolitan hub services at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.
These commitments will deliver more beds, more services and more treatments for Queensland cancer patients.
To make a donation to the Cancer Council for Daffodil Day, visit www.daffodilday.com.au
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