Your first appointment can be frightening, but it’s a crucial step towards the treatment and management of your cancer. Below are some answers to common questions held by people attending their first oncology appointment.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Our goal is to make sure you leave your first appointment informed and confident in your treatment plan, so we suggest writing down a list of any related questions you may have concerning your treatment and bringing it to your appointment. We also suggest bringing a notepad and pen with you: you may want to add more questions to your list during your appointment. This helps ensure that all your questions are answered during your visit.

What should I bring to my appointment?

For your first appointment, please bring a list of your current medications (including vitamins and herbal remedies) and the hard copy of any relevant imaging if available, as well as your prepared list of questions (if you have any) and something to take notes with. Consider also bringing along a family member or trusted friend, as an extra set of ears can be helpful in processing and remembering the important information.

For any subsequent appointments, you will be advised by your doctor if there is any preparation required or additional items to be brought with you.

Where do I park?

Dr Paterson works from three locations during the week: Newcastle Private Hospital, The Breast and Endocrine Centre, and Maitland Private Hospital’s Oncology Unit.

General and disabled parking is available to the rear of The Breast and Endocrine Centre, as well as limited surrounding street parking. Newcastle Private Hospital has dedicated oncology parking, for those undergoing treatment, as well as drop off parking, 10-minute parking, and undercover parking attached to the Kingston building. Maitland Private Hospital has pay and display parking onsite, although it can be difficult to find a park during peak periods. All three facilities are wheelchair accessible.

What happens at my first appointment?

We begin your consultation appointment with a complete medical review of your condition so far and an assessment of your other medical history. Your family history of cancer and related conditions is also assessed to determine the likelihood of an inherited cause for your cancer. The doctor will then determine which type of treatment is likely to work best in your individual case.

At this point, you may wish to discuss treatment options with Dr Paterson with regard to your unique situation and prognosis. If you would like to do your own research on a method of treatment before agreeing to it, a second consultation appointment can be scheduled. You will not be rushed to make a treatment decision on the day if you do not feel able to.

Once a treatment plan has been agreed upon, arrangements are made to start it as soon as is practical. These arrangements will depend on your unique situation.

Can I drive home after the appointment?

While it’s legal to drive home following your consultation appointment, some people do not feel confident in doing so due to the stress of the situation. If you believe that you may not feel confident in driving home, it may be best to invite a trusted friend or family member to your appointment to help you get home safely. If you would prefer to use public transport or are caught off guard, our friendly and caring staff are able to call a taxi for you.

What should I do before I start treatment?

• Get a dental check – Chemotherapy and other medications can affect your immune system, so it’s best to find and manage any potential oral infections beforehand.
• Freeze some meals – you likely won’t feel like cooking following your treatments. Pre-prepared meals are a great way to make sure nutritious food is readily available when you need it most.
• Talk to your employer – cancer treatment varies from person to person, and it can be hard to predict how it will affect you specifically. Consider discussing the possibility of flexible work hours or taking leave.
• Ask about fertility – some treatments can affect your ability to have children in the future. If this is something which concerns you, please talk to your doctor before you begin treatment.

Moving Forward

Hunter Valley Oncology services patients in the Hunter Valley area and surrounds. We understand that everyone is affected differently by cancer, which is why we provide support and guidance to our patients wherever we can.

For further questions concerning your treatment or to book an appointment, please contact us by calling our clinics or using our online contact form.

The post What to Expect from Your First Appointment appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

It also serves as a connecting link between patients and the Cancer Council’s services, which include free transport to the treatment centre for eligible patients, home care, and legal and counselling services.

The new unit, headed by Dr Robin Paterson, provides much needed chemotherapy treatments and oncology services to the Hunter Valley and New England regions. To find out how our holistic oncology services and new facilities could help you or someone you care about, contact us by phone or through our online form.

The post New Treatment Chairs at Maitland Private Hospital appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

If you or anyone you know are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please contact your GP for advice. Information on current COVID-19 restrictions is available on the Australian Government’s COVID-19 information page.

Are cancer patients at an increased risk for contracting COVID-19?

In short, yes. Both cancer and cancer treatments (such as chemotherapy and surgical tumour removal) can affect a patient’s immune system, and we know that this puts patients in treatment at a higher risk of developing more severe symptoms of COVID-19. This makes cancer patients more likely to need medical intervention (such as hospitalisation or a ventilator) if they fall sick.

Will COVID-19 affect cancer patients the same way as everyone else?

Research is ongoing and we are developing our understanding on a daily basis. It is thought that patients undergoing chemotherapy are more likely to present with atypical symptoms of COVID-19. As a result, it’s important to contact your GP if you feel sick at this time, even if you don’t have all the typical COVID-19 symptoms. You may be affected even if you don’t have a fever or sore throat, and your chance of complications may be reduced if you can access medical management as soon as possible.

As a cancer patient, how can I reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19?

You can reduce your risk of COVID-19 by following government guidelines for social distancing – keep at least 1.5m away from others, stay home when you can, and wash your hands regularly. However, we recommend taking extra care to protect yourself wherever you can. Stay at home whenever you can, particularly if you are over age 50 or suffer from hypertension in addition to cancer. Ask family of friends to run errands for you and try contactless delivery of posted item and online grocery delivery

Will my chemotherapy treatment be put on hold due to COVID-19?

If your chemotherapy treatment is affected by COVID-19, it will usually be due to changes in hospital capacity or staff. Chemotherapy is an essential service, therefore it won’t be cancelled or delayed unless there is no other option.

What changes are being made in the treatment centres?

Social distancing measures are in place across all treatment centres as is an increased sanitization schedule to prevent viral transmission.

We understand that having someone attend your appointment with you can make you more comfortable, one person may come with you to your appointments. However, support people will not be allowed in the treatment centres until COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. This will help to protect our staff and patients from disease, which allows us to keep providing much-needed cancer care.

If you’re a new patient

Where possible face-to-face appointments will continue for new patients. A face-to-face appointment is still the best option for ensure a thorough assessment and provide the best possible treatment recommendations. However, we are also able to provide consultations via telehealth, and recommend contacting us to discuss the best way to conduct your consultation.

Should I start chemotherapy?

Please discuss and follow the recommendations from your doctor regarding treatment. Your doctor will balance the risk and benefits of any treatment in conjunction with individual patients. Although chemotherapy will affect your immune system, the benefits of cancer treatment outweighs the immune risk in most cases. Hunter Valley Oncology will be providing constant support and advising patients individually throughout this time.

Will I be able to start treatment straight away?

Regardless of whether or not COVID-19 is an issue, chemotherapy is still a high-priority treatment and will continue under the guidance of your oncologist and any government guidelines and restrictions. It is very unlikely to be halted due to COVID-19.

What if my chemo treatment is over?

If your chemotherapy treatment finished more than three months ago, your immune system has had time to rebuild and it is unlikely you will be at significant extra risk of contracting COVID-19 than the general population.

However, it is important to remember that while your capacity to fight disease may have returned, current cancer patients are still not at full strength. As COVID-19 can survive on high-contact surfaces (such as doorknobs or chairs) for hours or days, it can be easily spread to others. Please continue to be aware of and follow social distancing and good hygiene practices to minimise the risk to the most vulnerable.

How is my follow-up appointment managed?

While Hunter Valley Oncology is still able to provide face-to-face follow up if necessary, we recommend a telehealth appointment if possible and will contact you to confirm details prior to your appointment. Minimising the amount of people who have to enter the clinic and our treatment centres helps keep our staff and patients healthy, which allows us to continue providing much-needed cancer treatment at this time.

Further Information

If you have any concerns about the impact of COVID-19 on your own health or cancer treatment, please contact Hunter Valley Oncology for expert guidance.

The post How COVID-19 is affecting cancer treatment and patients appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

The greater Hunter region’s wait time epidemic

The guidelines for timely chemotherapy laid out by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia and the Royal Australian College of Physicians recommend that chemotherapy be started within 3-4 weeks of a patient’s ready-for-care date. However, patients in the Hunter Valley and Maitland areas report much longer wait times – some have waited up to 8 weeks for treatment, even after being told that they need chemotherapy “urgently”. This time includes the time waiting for the initial appointment with an Oncologist.

Cancer rates in the region are only about 2% higher than the national average, but up to a large number of patients don’t get to start life-saving treatments until much later than recommended – a major contribution factor to the region’s cancer mortality rates, which are more than 15% higher than Australia’s average.

Unfortunately, this delay is not a recent development – Hunter’s cancer patients have reported longer than average wait times as far back as 2005.

Why so long?

The delay in treatment comes from a lack of available resources and professionals: the area’s specialist-to-patient ratio has previously been reported at around half of the ideal standard, and as many as 100 patients are waiting to see a specialist for treatment at any one time. Private oncology clinics tend to have shorter wait times than public ones, but even these can be overwhelmed at times.

Some patients have even tried to cut their chemotherapy wait time by seeking treatment in Sydney. Unfortunately, the cost of travel and accommodation makes this option out of reach to many, delaying often time-critical treatment by weeks.

Oncology facilities and professionals in Hunter Valley, Maitland, and even Newcastle, are operating at peak capacity to provide as much support as they can. Luckily, upgrades and expansions to the area’s resources are in progress.

Change is in progress

Oncology services in the area are working to increase their capacity, allowing patients to start their life saving treatments sooner. Maitland Private Hospital’s new day oncology unit, which opened its doors in October, already has plans for expansion in the coming years.

The new clinic, which currently includes four treatment chairs and can treat over 60 patients a week, is headed by Hunter Valley Oncology’s Dr Rob Paterson. It provides much needed chemotherapy treatments and oncology services to the severely underserviced Hunter Valley and New England regions, and aims to help decrease the area’s unacceptable wait times for treatment.

The new oncology unit also serves as a connecting link between patients and the Cancer Council’s services, which include free transport to the treatment centre for eligible patients, home care, and legal and counselling services.

We’re here for Hunter

Beginning chemotherapy can be very stressful, especially if you’ve been given a long waiting period before you can get your treatment underway. It’s important to begin cancer care as soon as possible, which is why we aim to provide access to treatment as soon as possible for our patients.

Although help may seem out of reach at times, Hunter Valley Oncology is working hard to improve the greater Hunter region’s access to quality cancer care. We pride ourselves on our ability to support local sufferers from our three locations in Newcastle and Maitland.

To find out how Dr Paterson’s holistic oncology services and new facilities could help you or someone you care about, contact us by phone or through our online contact form.

The post Waiting for Chemotherapy appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

Who is at risk of bowel cancer?

While everyone is at risk of developing bowel cancer, there are some key risk factors to be aware of. These risk factors are:

• a previous history of polyps in the bowel
• a previous history of bowel cancer
• chronic inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s disease)
• a strong family history of bowel cancer
• increased insulin levels or type 2 diabetes.

What are the symptoms of bowel cancer?

In the early stages of bowel cancer the symptoms are not always detectable and can sometimes mimic the symptoms of other medical issues. As such it is important to flag these with your health care provider so that they can rule out bowel cancer as the cause.

Symptoms to look out for include:

• change in bowel habit with diarrhoea, constipation or the feeling of incomplete emptying
• thin bowel movements
• blood in the stools
• abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
• anal or rectal pain
• a lump in the anus or rectum
• weight loss
• fatigue

How is bowel cancer diagnosed?

Bowel cancer is formally diagnosed by biopsy usually obtained during a colonoscopy. Due to the non-specific signs other investigations may be strongly suspicious of bowel cancer such as a CT scan. PET scans and ultrasounds may be used to identify how advanced the cancer is.

How is bowel cancer treated?

There are a number of treatment options available for bowel cancer depending on how advanced it is. In its early stages surgery maybe the only required treatment although radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy is often used before surgery for locally advanced rectal cancer to reduce the amount of cancer present. In situations where the cancer is more advanced, adjuvant chemotherapy is likely to be discussed. It aims to kill microscopic cancer cells that maybe left behind following surgery to prevent the cancer reoccurring in the future.

In advanced bowel cancer the main stay of treatment are drugs targeted against the cancer. These maybe chemotherapy or targeted treatments which are administered into the bloodstream and attack the cancer throughout the body. In certain specific situations it is possible to consider surgery to remove secondary cancers that have developed in other areas of the body.

How can bowel cancer be prevented?

While there is no way to completely prevent bowel cancer there are a number of ways that the risk can be reduced by not smoking, a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy body weight. In Australia, there is also a screening called the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) which is a test that can be done at home that looks for traces of blood in a bowel motion in people without symptoms. It can help to detect bowel cancer in its early stages and should be done every two years from the age of 50.

Where to Get Further Advice

If you have concerns about symptoms you are experiencing, consider speaking to your GP for a referral to see one of our qualified Oncologists at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Our holistic Oncology service fulfils the needs of patients in Newcastle NSW and surrounds. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4941 8424 or (02) 4942 2600 or use our online contact form.

The post Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Bowel Cancer appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

Lung cancer is a malignant tumour that grows in one or both of the lungs. Cancer that starts in the lungs is known as primary lung cancer and from there it can spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, brain, adrenal glands, liver and bones. If however, the cancer began somewhere else and eventually spreads to the lungs it is known as secondary or metastatic lung cancer.

What are the different types of lung cancer?

There are several different types of primary lung cancer that are classified by the types of cells affected by the cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for over 80% of diagnosed lung cancer cases and can be classified as:

• adenocarcinoma (begins in mucus-producing cells and is more often found in the outer part of the lungs)
• squamous cell carcinoma (most commonly develops in the larger airways)
• large cell undifferentiated carcinoma (the cancer cells are not clearly squamous or adenocarcinoma)

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 15-20% of diagnosed lung cancer cases starting in the middle of the lungs and usually spreads more quickly than NSCLC. Other cancers can also start in the space between the lungs or chest wall however these are not strictly lung cancer and are rare occurrences.

Lung Cancer Statistics in Australia

About 11, 000 Australians are diagnosed with lung cancer every year making it the country’s 5^th most common cancer accounting for nearly 9% of all diagnosed cancer cases. The average age at diagnosis in Australia is 71 and it is more likely to affect men than women. The chances of men being diagnosed with lung cancer before age 85 is 1 in 13 compared to the 1 in 22 chance that women have.

What causes lung cancer?

The causes of lung cancer are not fully understood however there are a number of risk factors associated with developing the disease. These risk factors are:

• Tobacco Smoking

Accounting for 9 out of 10 diagnosed lung cancer cases smoking is by far the biggest risk factor of developing lung cancer. The risk is also significantly affected by the age the person was when they started smoking and the number of cigarettes they smoke a day.

• Second-hand Smoking

People who have never smoked but have been exposed to other people’s smoke are 20%-30% more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer compared to those who have never smoked or never been exposed to smoke who have a 0.5% chance of developing lung cancer.

• Family & Personal History

The risk of developing lung cancer is increased if you have a family member that has been diagnosed with lung cancer or you have been previously diagnosed with another lung disease such as lung fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or pulmonary tuberculosis.

• Older Age

Lung cancer is more commonly diagnosed in those aged 60 or over however it can still affect young people.

• Exposure to Asbestos or Other Elements

Those who have been exposed to asbestos have a greater chance of developing cancer, particularly pleural mesothelioma. Exposure to other elements such as nickel, steel, chrome and coal gas may also be a risk factor as well as exposure to radiation or diesel particulate matter.

How is lung cancer treated?

In Australia the treatment of lung cancer varies dependent on the stage and location of the cancer, the severity of the symptoms and the general health of the person as well as their wishes. Some of the treatment options include:

Surgery

In the early stages of NSCLC, stage 0 to II or sometimes III, surgery may be a viable option to remove the tumour. If lung function is good and the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body the doctor may be able to remove some or all of the affected tissue to help cure the cancer.

Radiotherapy

Some people may receive radiotherapy as their main treatment for lung cancer, after surgery to help kill any cancer cells left behind, before surgery to shrink the tumour or to help relieve the symptoms of advanced lung cancer.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be used as the main treatment for stage IV NSCLC or as additional treatment after surgery to help kill microscopic cancer cells that remain but cannot be detected or before surgery to help shrink the tumour.

Targeted Treatments

About 30% adenocarcinomas (a type of non-small cell lung cancer) are caused by a mutation of the epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) within the tumour. A number of different mutations have the same effect of ‘driving’ the cancer to get bigger. Certain treatments are available which are targeted to switch off that stimulus and control the cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy can be used to treat some forms of NSCLC. Medicine is used to help boost a person’s own immune system to attack the cancer cells that have developed.

What are the symptoms of lung cancer?

The main symptoms of lung cancer are:

• a new cough or change in an ongoing cough
• breathlessness
• chest pain
• repeated bouts of pneumonia or bronchitis
• coughing or spitting up blood

A person may have also experienced symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, hoarse voice, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal or joint pain. These symptoms are often vague and as such means that lung cancer is not usually diagnosed until it has spread to other parts of the body so it is important to get these checked, particularly if you already have an increased risk such as you are a smoker or older in age.

Where to Get Further Advice

If you have concerns about symptoms you are experiencing, consider speaking to your GP for a referral to see one of our qualified Oncologists at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Our holistic Oncology service fulfils the needs of patients in Newcastle NSW and surrounds. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4941 8424 or (02) 4942 2600 or use our online contact form.

The post Lung Cancer in Australia appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

Incidence of mesothelioma is growing, in Australia and NSW, and may not peak until the 2030s as it can take many years after exposure to develop this disease.

Pleural mesothelioma begins in the membrane that surrounds the lungs however it is not considered a lung cancer and is treated differently. Pleural mesothelioma accounts for about 90% of mesothelioma cases.

Pleural Mesothelioma Prevention

For trade and construction workers and people that have worked in older buildings throughout the life, exposure to asbestos is likely imminent. Tiny asbestos fibers used in older materials and buildings can enter the body either by being inhaled or swallowed after these fibers are released into the air. Those that become trapped in the body can cause irritation, inflammation and cellular changes that can lead to mesothelioma.

Awareness of asbestos has drastically improved over the years. It is important for workers to take their own precautions around asbestos and report any unsafe work conditions to OSHA. Workplaces and workers in construction that may be exposed to asbestos should protect themselves by seeking advice from the employer about risks in the workplace, never cutting or drilling into asbestos materials without proper protection and always disposing of asbestos materials according to state or federal regulations.

No smoking or quitting is an important preventative option. Workers who have been exposed to asbestos are 50 times more likely to develop pleural mesothelioma than those who don’t smoke.

Unfortunately for many experienced workers or people that have been explored to asbestos, preventative measures are too late.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

• Shortness of breath – which usually worsens with activity or when lying down – Usually related to plural effusion (fluid collects in the pace between the ribs and lungs)
• Chest pain or pain in the shoulder and upper arm
• Persistent cough or change to a person’s usual cough, less likely symptoms in many cases
• Loss of appetite and weight loss are also less-likely symptoms

These symptoms are similar to those of other conditions so it is important if you know that you have been exposed to asbestos to let your GP know.

Treatments for Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma has proved difficult to treat and there is no cure. Treatments are focused on controlling the disease and maintaining patient’s quality of life. There are a number of specialists that may be involved in the care of mesothelioma patients.

• Surgery

A Surgeon may be involved initially to help obtain a biopsy of tissue for diagnosis as well as draining any fluid present to help re-expand and maintain inflation of the lung. A few patients may be suitable for more aggressive surgery, potentially in combination with other treatments discussed

• Chemotherapy

Standard treatment involves chemotherapy, usually with a combination of two drugs, evidence shows that some patients respond well to this treatment. Timing of the treatment can be more challenging, if there are currently no symptoms it may be possible to delay chemotherapy for a period of time.

Immunotherapy is a new form of anti-cancer treatment which uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It has been very successful in some forms of cancer and there is early evidence that it may be of benefit in mesothelioma. There is no PBS funding for the use of these expensive drugs in this condition, but there are avenues to explore to reduce the cost burden to the patient.

• Radiotherapy

Radiation treatment uses x-rays to kill cancer cells, it has limited use in mesothelioma treatment as the cancer cells appear resistant to radiotherapy. If the disease is causing specific issues in specific locations then it may form part of treatment.

Compensation 

In NSW, a diagnosis of mesothelioma, must, by law be reported to the Dust Diseases Board. Pleural mesothelioma is almost always a result of being exposed to and inhaling asbestos fibre, often due to work. If work related exposure can be proved to have occurred in NSW then the individual may be entitled to compensation. The Dust Disease Board is now administered through icare and the first step in the process would be to contact them directly. Civil action can also be considered against the manufacturer. Avenues also exist for compensation if the exposure occurred in other states or overseas.

The post Causes, Symptoms and Treatments for Pleural Mesothelioma (Asbestos Cancer) appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

A report done by the Cancer Council indicates that by 2040 an estimated 1.9 million people will have been diagnosed with cancer. Of these people, 47% will be women and 53% men and over half (58%) of these people will be aged over 70. The most common of these cancers being melanoma, colorectal, breast and prostate cancer making up over 1.2 million of the total estimated cases.

What does this mean for Australia?

This increase of cancer and people living beyond cancer will see a greater need for support services, particularly for the older generation. The Cancer Council report also highlights that survival rates decrease in lower socio-economic communities across Australia.

What can you do to lower your risk of cancer?

1 in 3 cancers are preventable which makes it all the more important to get regular check-ups, especially if there is a family history of cancer that are known to be hereditary. Prevention and early detection are two of the main reasons that the cancer survival rate is expected to increase by 2040.

The Cancer Council suggests a number of ways you can minimise your risk of cancer. These include:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating for your health
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Being SunSmart
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Exercising

Another great way to be proactive is to get checked regularly. Both men and women should look out for:

• Lumps, sores or ulcers that don’t heal
• Coughs that don’t go away
• Weight loss that can’t be explained
• Blood in bowel movement or persistent change in toilet habits
• Abdominal pain or persistent bloating
• Moles that change shape, colour or size.

Men should also watch for any changes to their testicles and discuss with their doctors about when they should start getting prostate exams. Women however need to be more vigilant with any changes to their breasts such as lumps, thickening, unusual discharge or any unexplained changes in the nipples such as the shape, colour or any sudden pain. If you are over 40, BreastScreen Australia offers free mammograms and they recommend you get them done every two years. The Cancer Council also suggests that women should have a Cervical Screening Test every 5 years. This test has since replaced the previously used pap smear test and still needs to be done whether or not a woman has had the vaccination.

Where to Get Further Advice

Despite the initial concern over the increase of people in Australia who will be living with cancer, this report has actually highlighted a number of ways in which we can help to prepare for this. Prevention and early detection of any symptoms can help to improve the survival rate considerably.

If you have concerns about symptoms you are experiencing, consider speaking to your GP for a referral to see our qualified Oncologist at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Our holistic Oncology service fulfils the needs of patients in Newcastle NSW and surrounds. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4941 8424 or (02) 4942 2600 or use our online contact form.

The post Cancer Rate to Surge 72% in Australia by 2040 appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

The thing is, most women aren’t aware that many gynaecological symptoms can be signs of a bigger health issue that needs to be addressed. The Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation estimates that an Australian woman is diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer every 2 hours, with 1 in 21 Australian women estimated to face a diagnosis by their 85^th birthday.

Increasing your awareness about these cancers and their symptoms can make a difference. While there are no guarantees with cancer, early detection greatly increases chances of successful treatment.

In this post I, Dr Rob Paterson, will discuss gynaecological cancer, and highlight some symptoms you shouldn’t ignore.

What is gynaecological cancer?

As with all cancers, gynaecological cancer is an uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. However gynaecological cancer occurs specifically in the female reproductive organs, including the:

• Uterus
• Ovaries
• Cervix
• Vulva
• Vagina
• Fallopian tubes
• Placenta

Common symptoms of gynaecological cancers

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, I recommend that you see your GP and if necessary ask for a referral to our patient-centred Newcastle Oncology clinic.

Having these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have gynaecological cancer; however getting examined by a healthcare professional is the only way to know for sure.

Spotting or bleeding between periods

Birth control pills, hormonal fluctuations, fibroids, and stress can all be reasons why spotting or bleeding occurs between periods. Most of the time, this bleeding is not harmful, but it could also be a sign of an infection, an STD, or a gynaecological cancer such as uterine, ovarian or vaginal cancer.

Pain during sex

Some women dread having sex because they know it’s going to hurt. But they don’t seek medical advice because of embarrassment about discussing the issue. Pain during sex is not considered normal, and can be attributed to infection, vulvodynia, endometriosis, or a gynaecological cancer.

If you experience pain during sex, it’s important to address the issue with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Painful periods

Many women ignore this gynaecological symptom because they think that painful periods are to be expected. It is true that menstruation is usually accompanied by a degree of discomfort and cramping. But experiencing a level of pain that hinders your ability to go about your daily life should be investigated. So if you’re experiencing extreme period pain, I strongly recommend seeing your GP.

Changes in your menstrual cycle

The specifics of menstrual cycles can vary between women. Long or short, heavy or light, intermittent or like clockwork… most women have a pretty good idea of what is normal for their body.

Changes in your regular periods are not necessarily a sign of cancer. They can also be caused by other events such as illness, stress, and certain medications (including contraceptive pills).

However, heavier or suddenly painful periods can also be a sign of a larger problem such as fibroids, an ovarian cyst, endometriosis, or a gynaecological cancer. So if you notice a change in your period, whether in length, intensity, or reliability, it’s a good idea to get it checked out.

Excessive bloating

Bloating is a common experience for women, especially prior to – or during – menstruation. But chronic bloating can be a symptom of an ovarian cyst or cancer. If your GP has ruled out common causes of bloating such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, or other digestive ailments, ask for a referral to see myself, Dr Rob Paterson, or another of our caring Oncologists at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Vaginal discharge

Small changes in your vaginal discharge’s colour, consistency, and volume throughout each month are normal. But if your vaginal discharge starts appearing dark, bloody (between periods) or has an unusual odour, it could be an early warning sign for cervical, uterine, ovarian or vaginal cancer. A trip to the doctor could put your mind at ease.

Back pain

Persistent pain or discomfort in your back, pelvis, or abdomen is your body trying to tell you something is not quite right. Although there are a large number of common causes for these types of pain, if yours lasts more than a few weeks, it’s best to talk to your doctor to rule out a gynaecological cancer such as ovarian or uterine cancer.

Where to get further advice

If you have concerns about gynaecological symptoms you are experiencing, consider speaking to your GP for a referral to see one of our qualified Oncologists at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Our holistic Oncology service fulfils the needs of patients in Newcastle NSW and surrounds. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4941 8424 or (02) 4942 2600 or use our online contact form.

The post Gynaecological Cancer Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Hunter Valley Oncology.

Fortunately, many cancer survival rates are improving thanks to advances in available treatments. But this increase isn’t consistent across all cancers, nor does it guarantee survival.

Here at Hunter Valley Oncology, we have put together a list of common cancers affecting Australian men today. Read on to find out how to reduce your cancer risk.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. It’s estimated that 1 in 5 men will face a diagnosis by the age of 85.
As with many cancers, the earlier it’s caught, the better the prognosis. The five year survival rate for men diagnosed with prostate cancer is 95%. However, high grade prostate cancer spreads very quickly and can be fatal.

What you can do
Age, family history, and genetics can all influence your likelihood of developing prostate cancer. If you’re over 50 and have a family history of the disease, talk with your doctor about testing for prostate cancer as part of your annual health check-up.
See your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Frequently needing to urinate, particularly at night
• Pain or discomfort while urinating
• Blood in your urine or semen
• A weak or intermittent urine stream

Healthy eating including, fresh fruit and vegetables and having a low fat diet can also improve your chances of avoiding this disease.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Australia, with one out of 18 men estimated to die from the disease by their 85th birthday. Unfortunately, the five year survival rate for people diagnosed with lung cancer is just 14%.

What you can do
Although there are many risk factors associated with this disease including pollution, family history, and exposure to certain chemicals, studies have found that 90% of lung cancers in males are directly caused by smoking.

Therefore, the single most important thing you can do to reduce your lung cancer risk is to avoid cigarette smoke. If you currently smoke, there are multiple programs and tools available to help you quit. Visit Quit.org.au or call Quitline on 13 78 48 for help and guidance.

Colorectal cancer

Also known as bowel cancer or colon cancer, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in Australian men, with 1 in 11 males estimated to be diagnosed before their 85th birthday.

People with a family history of colorectal cancer are considered to be at higher risk of developing the disease.

What you can do

It’s believed that eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise could prevent up to 75% of colorectal cancer cases. Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol to 2 standard drinks a day, and avoiding processed and red meats can also improve your chances of avoiding a diagnosis.
There is a non-invasive bowel cancer screening test available, known as the faecal occult blood test (FOBT). Australians over the age of 50 are encouraged to use the test every 2 years. Additionally, a colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years to check for abnormalities in the bowel.

Visit your GP if you notice any of the following:

• Changes in your bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhoea
• Blood in your stools
• Abdominal, anal, or rectal pain
• A lump in your anus or rectum
• Unexplained fatigue, anaemia or weight loss

Bladder cancer

Bladder cancer is significantly more common in men than women. Men over 60 years old carry a higher risk of developing the disease, which has a 5 year survival rate of 53%.

People with a family history of the disease are at a higher risk of a diagnosis. Other factors that increase your risk include:

• Smoking (this doubles your risk)
• Family history
• Chronic bladder inflammation
• Diabetes
• Exposure to certain chemicals in the petrochemical, textile, and rubber industries
• The chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide

What you can do
There is currently no screening for bladder cancer available in Australia. Quitting smoking is the biggest risk factor you can avoid.
In addition, see your doctor if you notice:

• A burning sensation when passing urine
• Blood in your urine
• An urgent need to pass urine often
• Problems emptying your bladder

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is the 10th most common cancer in Australian men. Unfortunately, this type of cancer has a very low survival rate of just 8% over 5 years. This is because pancreatic cancer rarely causes symptoms, so it’s not often caught until in its final stages.

People with a family history of pancreatic, ovarian or colon cancer are considered to be at higher pancreatic cancer risk. Also, those with chronic pancreatitis or diabetes, or people over the age of 65 are more likely to face a positive diagnosis.

What you can do
Smokers are 2-3 times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer. So if you do smoke, it could be time to quit. Additionally, removing foods high in cholesterol, salt, fried foods, barbecued meat, and smoked meats from your diet may improve your cancer risk.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the second most common cancer in Australian men aged 18-39. Fortunately, it has a high 5 year survival rate close to 95%. Early detection and treatment are key to a positive outcome.

What you can do
It’s important to remain vigilant about your testicular health. Check your testicles regularly, taking care to notice:

• Swelling or a lump in your testicle
• A feeling of heaviness in your scrotum
• Pain or aching in your abdomen, scrotum, or testicle
• Change in the size or shape of your testicle

Also, tenderness or swelling of your breast tissue can be caused by hormonal changes related to testicular cancer. If you notice any of these symptoms, visit your GP for a referral to myself, Dr Rob Paterson, or one of our other oncologists at Hunter Valley Oncology.

Where to get further advice

At Hunter Valley Oncology, we recommend seeking advice if you have any concerns about your cancer risk. Our patient-centred, holistic Oncology practice is located in Newcastle NSW. To make an appointment, please call (02) 4941 8424 or (02) 4942 2600 or use our online contact form.

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