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GPs Boost Cancer Screening Skills
The RACGP has launched a new online learning activity designed to support GPs in boosting their knowledge and the latest approached to the early detection of common types of cancer including breast cancer, cervical cancer, melanoma, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer. Developed trough an educational grant from the Cancer Council Australia, the new learning module is available through the RACGP's online education portal gplearning at www.gplearning.com.au.
"GPs cover the full spectrum of cancer including prevention, screening, diagnosis, referral, follow-up and providing psychosocial support to patients and support partners," said Dr Ronald McCoy, Melbourne-baed GP and RACGP spokesperson. "GPs play a key role in cancer prevention and caring for patients who have llikely symptoms or concerns about possible cancer, or who may be at increased risk due to family history of their lifestyle. Through our new gplearning module we are encouraging GPs to learn more about the latest cancer screening methods, which helps early detection of cancer and improves the patient's chance of successful treatment. This new education module provides an interactive and practical approach to cancer screening in general practice. As it is available online, GPs can complete this learning activity anywhere at any time," said Dr McCoy. Cancer Council Australia CEO, Professor Ian Olver, encouraged all GPs to participate in the online learning module. "GPs are the frontline in the fight against cancer, a disease that affects one in two Australians by the age of 85 and results in more than 39,000 deaths each year," Professor Olver said. "Catching cancer early significantly improves patient outcomes and survival rates. By increasing their understanding of the latest cancer screening methods, GPs can make a real difference to improving the rates of early detection and to saving lives."
The Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 offers confidential telephone information and support.
National Bowel Cancer Screening Program Update
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) has been running in South Australia for over 12 months. Register data indicates that 38% of men and 42% of women are choosing to participate. Invitations to participate and faecal occult blood test (FOBT) kits will continue to be sent to eligible people until June. The current phase of the program involves those turning 55 or 65 years of age between 1 May 2006 and 30 June 2008, and people who were involved in the NBCSP pilot project. Participants who have already received an invitation and FOBT kit from the NBCSP but have misplaced it, can obtain another kit free of charge by calling the NBCSP information line on 1800 118 868.
Bowel cancer is one of the most curable cancers if detected early. The Cancer Council South Australia (TCCSA) have stressed the important role of GPs and other health professionals in encouraging people eligible for testing through the program to take up the opportunity, especially men. Kirsten Hawthorn, TCCSA bowel cancer screening project officer can provide training and resources in regard to the program. Ph 8291 4265 or email.
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The Leukaemia Foundation is a national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the care and cure of patients and families living with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders.
The Cancer Council SA website is a particularly good source of information for consumers including fact sheets and information such as accommodation for sufferers needing treatment in the city.
The Cancer Council SA provides a Cancer Counselling Service - a free counselling service to people affected by cancer, their family and carers. It is particularly designed to meet the needs of people who have difficulty accessing support that relates to their cancer experience. Our counselling team are professionally trained and experienced in helping people with cancer. The Cancer Counselling Service offers brief counselling interventions, although people can access the service again as their needs change.
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Why a Cancer Counselling Service?
This Service can provide your patients with:
- an opportunity to discuss their cancer experience and its impact on their life
- an opportunity to be listened to and respected
- new ways to manage stress
- a process to set personal goals and develop ways to achieve them
- options on how to talk to family and friends about concerns
Please refer your patients to The Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 from Monday–Friday 8.30am – 5.30pm to arrange a counselling session.
The National Breast Cancer website is an excellent site for both consumers and clinicians with best practice for both breast and ovarian cancer.
RGH has established the first comprehensive Australian website to help men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer. Please click here regarding Prostate Health.
Australian Lung Foundation website has information for consumers, including a national phone number 1800 654 301, to find out about support groups or email.
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