With more Australians experiencing the devastation and disruption of a blood cancer diagnosis, the Leukaemia Foundation is announcing Australia’s first and only dedicated blood cancer support line – 1800 620 420 – on the first day of Blood Cancer Month.
The latest data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare confirms that 53 Australians will be diagnosed with blood cancer (including leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma) every year, an increase from 50 people daily in 2021.
With incidence continuing to rise, 5-year survivorship of blood cancer has remained stagnant (67.9 per cent) and lower than all cancers combined in Australia (70.1 per cent).
A recent Australian study also found survivors of blood cancer with high unmet supportive care needs were 50 per cent more likely to see their cancer return.
Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti said 135,000 Australians are currently living with blood cancer, and diagnoses are projected to nearly double by 2035.
In addition to treatment pathways, access to personalised supportive care and information is critical to ensure every single Australian impacted by blood cancer has the opportunity to survive the disease and thrive, regardless of where they live.
“Whether you are currently living with blood cancer, undergoing treatment, in remission, a carer, or grieving the loss of a loved one, Australia’s blood cancer support line is now available to guide all Australians through the emotional, physical, and psychosocial challenges of blood cancer,” Mr Tanti said.
“When someone receives a blood cancer diagnosis, it can feel like the beginning of a long and isolating journey. Treatment is often complex and urgent, and life-saving care can be far from home. We know too many Australians are left feeling overwhelmed, unsure – and alone.
“Sadly, many Australians impacted by blood cancer still face barriers to receiving the care they need, when they need it,” Mr Tanti continued.
“By breaking down these barriers and offering personalised supportive care and information at no cost, we know that we can help people not only survive their blood cancer but thrive,” he added.
During Blood Cancer Month and beyond, the Leukaemia Foundation continues to stand with and support all Australians living with blood cancer and their loved ones, reminding them that they are not alone.
Contact Australia’s blood cancer support line Monday to Friday from 10 am – 4 pm AEST via calling 1800 620 420 or anytime via bloodcancer.org.au.
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