Cancer Council Tasmania are running their Complementary Therapy programs again this year!   These include: massage mindfulness yoga tai chi pilates The complementary therapy programs are all run by qualified facilitators. Some of these programs are run through a local centre or online.   If you're interested in finding out more, please call Cancer Council Tasmania on 1300 65 65 85. ... View more

South Australians who live in rural areas have up to 31 per cent higher chance of developing skin cancer, and those in coastal and agricultural regions having the highest incidence.     Cancer Council South Australia are running some information sessions in November about skin cancer awareness, to help combat this.   These sessions will cover: why protecting your skin from UV is so important; when and how you should be protecting your skin; and how to identify early signs of skin cancer and when to see your GP. To register for a date and time that best suits you, head here. ... View more

Cancer Council QLD is holding an online event on November 10th, focussing on younger women and cancer.     The event will offer information and helpful strategies to manage concerns common for younger women affected by cancer.   The event program will feature the following sessions: Emotions and cancer Sexuality and intimacy Support is available When you're a mum with cancer We've attached the full event program below for you to download. You're welcome to attend the whole event or jump online for the topics you’re most interested in.   Other details: Date: November 10th When: 12-2pm Where: Online - from your phone, computer or tablet device You can register for free, online. ... View more

While it's not certain that people who smoke are more likely to get COVID-19, we know that they are at a higher risk of getting respiratory infections in general. This means that it’s more likely than not that people who smoke have a higher risk of getting COVID-19 compared to people who don’t smoke.   Also, the hand-to-mouth action of smoking and e-cigarette use means that people who smoke may be more vulnerable to COVID-19, as they are touching their face and mouth more often.   It’s not known for sure, but it’s also possible the vapour from e-cigarettes may be able to spread the virus (either in the air or as it settles on surfaces).   Sharing any type of tobacco or smoking product (for example, cigarettes, e-cigarettes or shisha/waterpipes) can also increase the risk of spreading COVID-19.   Quit has developed a suite of frequently asked questions about smoking and COVID-19 here. ... View more

For those affected by cancer, the risk of contracting COVID-19 may be heightened due to compromised immunity, so more than ever, our community’s most vulnerable need support.   There are many ways you can volunteer to help someone affected by cancer, such as: Running small errands such as picking up grocery shopping, posting or picking up mail, or mowing or gardening. Driving someone to treatment, as there are many locations where drivers are needed for our Transport to Treatment programs. Offering emotional support – a phone or video call can be a great way to check in with others and offer a listening ear or a nice friendly face. Have a look here to find out more information on how to help people with cancer during COVID-19. ... View more

If you need further assistance with advanced care planning, you can Visit Advance Care Planning Australia’s website. Call their National Phone Advisory Service on: 1300 208 582 Monday to Friday 9AM – 5PM (AEST). Speak with your health care team. ... View more

Coronavirus restrictions may create difficulties in getting Advance Care Directives signed by the appropriate people and your doctor.   Advance Care Directives can be completed with and signed by your doctor if you have email or fax available. Alternatively, all states and territories (excluding Queensland) recognise common law Advance Care Directives.   A common law Advance Care Directive can be created by using a recommended form or creating a letter, and should include your: name date of birth preferences for care acceptable or unacceptable outcomes (e.g. CPR, ventilation, loss of independence) substitute decision-maker signature and date. It is best to check the forms and requirements of your state or territory. Advanced Care Planning Australia provides specific information about this. ... View more

To get started with advanced care planning, we recommend that you: Start a conversation with your loved ones – be clear about what medical treatment and outcomes you would want or not want. Identify who should make your medical decisions if you become suddenly unwell and are unable to do so. Speak with your GP (consider a telehealth consultation) about advance care planning and your preferences. Write down your preferences in an Advance Care Directive and provide a copy to your decision maker, your GP and your treating health service. Advanced Care Planning Australia have a range of information and resources which may be useful for you. ... View more

Advance Care Planning is a process of planning for future health care needs. This considers a person’s values, beliefs and preferences to inform medical treatment decision-making at a future time when the person cannot make or communicate their own wishes or decisions. It is an important part of routine and person-centred health care for all Australians.   Anyone can and should make an advanced care plan, but these become more important in situations where someone has been diagnosed with an illness or condition that may impact their ability to make important medical decisions.   Advance Care Planning is important at any time, but even more so during uncertain times such as these. People with cancer need to consider how the COVID-19 situation may affect their health care preferences. People should consider what are acceptable and unacceptable health outcomes for them and talk to your doctor about your options. ... View more

Stem cell transplants are an important treatment option for people with blood cancer. However, having a weakened immune system may also increase your risk of COVID-19. Your doctor will discuss both the benefits of the stem cell transplant but also your individual risk. A transplant can affect your immune system so it is possible your doctor will choose to delay your transplant if they believe this will provide the best outcome for you.   If you are concerned, you should speak to your treating team to make sure you understand what factors your treatment team has considered. Please also remember that our 13 11 20 information and support number is available if you need practical or emotional support during this time.   The Leukaemia Foundation has more information that could help you here.   Resources 13 11 20 Information and Support (Cancer Council) Blood cancer and COVID-19 (Leukaemia Foundation) ... View more