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South Australians fear cancer myths
August 19, 2008

Results of a survey released today by Cancer Council SA, show that the majority of South Australians incorrectly believe that factors such as pollution, pesticides and stress are the major causes of cancer.

Chief Executive Cancer Council SA, Associate Professor Brenda Wilson, said that cancer is the disease most feared by Australians, yet a surprising number of South Australians are more worried about risk factors that have little or no effect, than about factors that are major causes of cancer.

“The link between cancer and environmental factors such as pollution and pesticides is not strong, with scientists believing these factors contribute to only about two per cent of cancers diagnosed.

“More than half of those surveyed are also concerned about the link between stress and cancer but there is no conclusive evidence linking cancer and stress,” she said.

The biggest cause of cancer in our community is UV radiation from the sun, with almost 26,000 South Australians diagnosed with skin cancer, including melanoma, each year.

“What is surprising is that only a quarter of people surveyed highlighted UV radiation as a cause of cancer. Many South Australians are more inclined to believe myths than reality when it comes to what causes cancer,” said Associate Professor Wilson.

While the link between mobile phone use and cancer is not proven, the community has held concerns about the health impact of mobile phones for many years. The survey found that this concern is decreasing with 14 per cent, of people holding this concern, a reduction of four per cent.

While the report highlighted that many South Australian’s fear factors where there is no or little evidence of cancer risk, it also highlights that they are not aware of factors that are strongly linked to cancer, such as diet and physical activity.

“The report highlighted that a large proportion of the community perceive factors such as pollution and pesticides, to be a higher cancer risk than obesity – when obesity has been proven to significantly increase the risk of developing cancer,” said Associate Professor Wilson.

There is research evidence showing that obesity can be attributed to 39 per cent of cancers of the uterus, 37 per cent of cancers of the oesophagus, 25 per cent of kidney cancers, 11 per cent of colorectal cancers and nine per cent of post-menopausal breast cancers.

“There are many causes of cancer that we do know about, such as tobacco use, sun exposure, genetic risk factors and diet and lifestyle. The survey highlights that more needs to be done to educate the community about the causes of cancer and how to reduce the risk of developing the disease that 23 South Australians are diagnosed with each day,” said Associate Professor Brenda Wilson.

This Friday, 22 August, is Daffodil Day and Cancer Council SA is encouraging people to buy daffodils and merchandise to help fund more cancer research, support and education and prevention services so that fewer people will face a cancer diagnosis.

Key findings of the research:

Only 24 per cent of respondents reported UV radiation as being a cause of cancer; UV radiation is the biggest cause of cancer
Pollution is perceived as the second most important cancer risk factor with 75 percent of respondents drawing this link; the link between pollution and cancer is not strong
Pesticides are seen as the fourth biggest cause of cancer, though in reality these environmental factors contribute to only two per cent of cancers
Over half of respondents believe stress causes cancer though there is insufficient evidence to suggest there is any link between the two

The fear of a link between mobile phones and cancer is decreasing.

Notes to editors:

The survey was taken through face to face interviews from approximately 3,000 respondents statewide.

30 people die unnecessarily in SA each week
August 19, 2008

In South Australia a staggering 63 people die each week from cancer, Cancer Council SA has today announced that almost half of these deaths could be prevented.

Studies have found that by leading a healthy lifestyle, which includes not smoking, healthy eating, exercising, being SunSmart and limiting alcohol consumption, a person’s risk of developing cancer halves.

However, results from a recent Cancer Council SA survey found that very few South Australians are currently taking the necessary steps to reduce their risk of cancer with 99.7% of those surveyed living a lifestyle that potentially doubles their risk of developing cancer.

Chief Executive, Cancer Council SA, Associate Professor Brenda Wilson, said every day 23 South Australians are diagnosed with cancer but through making simple lifestyle changes, eleven of those people need not have been.

"By halving the number of people diagnosed with cancer, not only would a huge financial burden be lifted from the state but an immeasurable amount of pain and suffering would be removed from families."

The key findings of the study were:

77 per cent of South Australian’s did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity for cancer prevention
92 per cent of South Australian’s did not have the adequate vegetable, bread or cereal intake to reduce cancer risk
21 per cent of South Australian’s exceed the recommended alcohol intake for reduced cancer risk
87 per cent of women are unaware of the recommendations for cervical cancer screening
Less than half of South Australian’s check their skin for suspicious spots that could be skin cancer or melanoma

The report highlights that more needs to be done to educate the community about how to prevent cancer.

"Many people think that an elusive ‘cure for cancer’ will be discovered and the disease will be eliminated. In reality, it’s already within the hands of each and every one of us to dramatically reduce our risk of getting cancer.

"In order to treat the remaining 50 per cent of cancers that are unpreventable, we need to put our faith in science. That is why we are excited to announce that the state government has committed to matching the Cancer Council’s $54 million plan for cancer control programs.

Over the next five years the state government will match Cancer Council SA dollar-for-dollar to the combined value of $108 million," said Associate Professor Wilson.

With the state government having pledged their support to reducing the burden of cancer in SA, Cancer Council SA has now set three strategic objectives to pave the way forward in the fight against cancer.

"Over the next five years we will focus on strategies of Research Innovation; injecting more money into cancer research to make SA a leader in clinical research, LiveSmart; encouraging the community to reduce their cancer risk through healthy lifestyle practices and LiveWell; which aims to support the increasing number of people being diagnosed with cancer," said Associate Professor Wilson.

Cancer Council SA is committed to ensuring that cancers are prevented where possible, diagnosed early when they do occur and receive the most advanced treatment available thanks to leading research.

Associate Professor Wilson said she that while she is excited that the new direction of cancer Council SA will bring more benefit to the community than ever before, the charity desperately needs the support of the community to make it possible.

Donations can be made online at www.cancersa.org.au/donate or by calling 8291 4111.

Gene link to bowel cancer
August 15, 2008

US researchers have discovered a genetic trait that shows the strongest link yet to colorectal cancer, the number-two cancer killer in the United States, according to a study published today. If a person inherits this gene, his or her risk of getting colon cancer is 50 per cent higher than the the six per cent risk in the general population, said the research by doctors at Northwestern University, published in the journal Science. Read The Advertiser story.

Give a gift to help those affected by cancer
August 4, 2008

Hopes are budding for the Cancer Council SA in their aim to raise a record $650,000 this Daffodil Day, 22 August, as the town is painted yellow with daffodils.

In South Australia, twenty three people are diagnosed with cancer each day. The Cancer Council SA needs the community to purchase daffodils and Daffodil Day merchandise, to help those living with cancer.

By purchasing a Daffodil Day gift, such as a yellow wristband, $4, daffodil enamel pin, $5, sparkling diamante pin, $10, cuddly Dougal Bear, $10, soft mini-ball, $7, or daffodil pen, $5, your dollars will help fund cancer research, prevention and support services.

Actor Frankie J Holden, has been directly affected by cancer and is showing his support this Daffodil Day.

“My first wife Melda died in 1987 from a carcoma after a nine month battle, leaving me and my three daughters to grieve her too short life. My mother died from breast cancer on Valentine’s Day 2007. Other members of my extended family and friends have also suffered and died from cancer.”

“Daffodil Day is one way we can all contribute to finding cures for the various forms of cancer and to show people who are affected that we as a community care and want to do all we can to assist those who have to face its threat head-on.”

“I am proud to support this worthy cause and urge everyone to do so. It’s a community threat and it needs a community response,” he said.

Cancer Council SA’s Chief Executive, Associate Professor Brenda Wilson said that Daffodil Day is helping change attitudes towards cancer. “People are now more open to talk about their health and seek advice, which can help in the prevention and early detection of cancer. But there is still more work to be done.

“We want people to give a Daffodil Day gift in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a survivor or to simply give hope for a brighter future and help Cancer Council SA reach our fundraising target of $650,000” she said.

While the official Daffodil Day date is Friday 22 August, gifts can be purchased throughout the month. To order items and become a stall volunteer or make an online donation visit www.daffodilday.com.au

All money raised goes to Cancer Council research, education and patient support programs. As little as $5 can provide support to those newly diagnosed with cancer.

Ends

Daffodil Day gifts can be purchased at volunteer sites and supporting outlets including: Coles, IGA, Foodland, Drake Foodmarkets, Cheap As Chips, Chemplus, National Pharmacies, United Discount Chemists, BankSA, ANZ, Raine & Horne, Millers Fashion Club, Rockmans BeMe, Crossroads, Quix, Healthy Life, DVC, Better Health, Discount Pharmacy, Independent Living and Medicare.

Daffodil Day is proudly supported by Channel 9 - Telethon

Prostate cancer breakthrough
August 1, 2008

A research study funded by the Cancer Council SA is showing promising results for the improved prevention and treatment of prostate cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men.

Researcher, Dr Andrew Sakko, has identified key genes in mice that contribute to the risk of developing prostate cancer. Dr Sakko has also discovered alterations to special hormone-regulated proteins during prostate cancer growth, which may be used to help stop the spread of the cancer.

Dr Andrew Sakko said that prostate cancer commonly spreads from the prostate to other parts of the body and current treatments are typically only effective for two to five years before the cancer starts growing again.

“The research in mice has given us a better understanding of the genes involved in developing prostate cancer and how to stop existing prostate cancer tumours from spreading.” Dr Sakko said.

Using a new NanoZoomer instrument, the first of its kind in Australia, Dr Sakko’s laboratory has now begun trials on human prostate cancer tissue. The high-tech instrument combines a robotic microscope and an internet based analysis program to measure the proteins made by cancer cells in the tissue.

Chief Executive of Cancer Council SA and ProstateSA, Associate Professor Brenda Wilson, said that while the results are exciting, far more research needs to be done to find better methods of diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

“To raise vital funds for prostate cancer research, ProstateSA is launching a new event, the Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic, a fundraising bike ride on 7 September,” she said.

“Current methods of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment are years behind that of other cancers.

“With almost 1,500 South Australian men being diagnosed with the disease each year, more research needs to be done.

Prostate cancer survivor, Ian Fisk, was diagnosed with prostate cancer six years ago and knows first-hand, the need for more research.

“Riding in the Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic this Father’s Day means that fewer men and their families will experience the suffering prostate cancer causes.”

“I was lucky that my cancer was picked up relatively early, but others aren’t so lucky. Events like this are vital not only to raise funds for more research, but to educate men about the risk of this deadly disease,” he said.

For more information on the Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic, and to register, visit www.fathersdayclassic.org.au, or call 1300 65 65 85.

Notes to editors:

Participants of the Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic can register to ride the 12km metro circuit, the 42km Mt Lofty circuit or the 5.4km elite time trial (covers part of the Mt Lofty circuit).

Additional statistics

A total of 13,526 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in Australia in 2003 (the latest year for which national statistics are available) increasing to an estimated 18,700 cases in 2006
In 2005, 1,462 SA men were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 259 men died of the disease
Prostate cancer is rare before the age of 45
About 85 per cent of new cases and more than 96 per cent of deaths occur in men aged over 60
After diagnosis, a majority of men survive for 10 years or more
The burden of prostate cancer will increase with the ageing of the population.

Symptoms

Difficulty in passing urine

Passing urine more frequently especially at night
Difficulty in starting the flow of urine
Blood in urine
Pain when passing urine
Any of these symptoms combined with pains in the lower back, upper thighs or pelvic area.

These symptoms may indicate prostate cancer but are more likely due to benign enlargement. Any of these symptoms should be investigated promptly by a doctor.

Get onya bike for Dad, this Father’s Day
August 1, 2008

The Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic is a cycling event which promises participants the ultimate prize: vital funds to fight the cancer that affects one in eight men.

Chief Executive, Cancer Council SA and ProstateSA, Brenda Wilson, said that participating in the Father’s Day Classic is the perfect gift for dad this Father’s Day.

“With almost 1,500 SA men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, all dads are at risk of the disease.

“Participating in an event that raises money to fund research for prostate cancer certainly is a Father’s Day gift with a difference.

“Our current methods of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment are years behind that of other cancers and more research needs to be done,” she said.

Prostate cancer survivor, Ian Fisk, was diagnosed with prostate cancer six years ago and knows first hand of the need for more research to find better methods of diagnosis and treatment.

“I was lucky that my cancer was picked up relatively early but others aren’t so lucky. Events like this are vital not only to raise funds for more research but to educate men about the risk of this deadly disease,” he said.

The ride begins in the eastern parklands on Father’s Day, 7 September, with participants riding in either the 12km fun ride through suburban Adelaide, the 42km course through Mt Lofty or the 5.4km elite time trial (covers part of the Mt Lofty circuit).

For more information on the Guardian Insurance Father’s Day Classic and to register, visit www.fathersdayclassic.org.au or call 1300 65 65 85.

Notes to editors:

The Cancer Council is holding a Prostate Cancer Call-In on 11 September. Those who would like to know more about prostate cancer are encouraged to call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 and discuss their individual concerns with a specialist.

Additional statistics

A total of 13,526 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in

Australia

in 2003 (the latest year for which national statistics are available) increasing to an estimated 18,700 cases in 2006

In 2005, 1,462 SA men were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 259 men died of the disease

Prostate cancer is rare before the age of 45

About 85 per cent of new cases and more than 96 per cent of deaths occur in men aged over 60

After diagnosis, a majority of men survive for 10 years or more

The burden of prostate cancer will increase with the ageing of the population.

Symptoms

Difficulty in passing urine

Passing urine more frequently especially at night

Difficulty in starting the flow of urine

Blood in urine

Pain when passing urine

Any of these symptoms combined with pains in the lower back, upper thighs or pelvic area.

These symptoms may indicate prostate cancer but are more likely due to benign enlargement. Any of these symptoms should be investigated promptly by a doctor.

UK researchers claim prostate cancer breakthrough
July 24, 2008

Medical researchers in the UK say a new drug could help men with a deadly form of prostate cancer manage the disease. The researchers from the Institute of Cancer Research say tests of the drug Abiraterone show 80 per cent of men with an aggressive form of the cancer, who hadn't responded to previous treatment, improved after taking the drug. Read the ABC story.

Gardasil vaccine eradicating human papillomavirus infections
July 23, 2008

The new cervical cancer vaccine is expected to almost eradicate human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in Australian women by 2050 if the high rate of immunisation amongst girls continues. Research to be released today by the Cancer Council NSW reveals the number of new HPV cases in women will fall by more than 50 per cent in the next two years. In 40 years, the number of cases will fall by 97 per cent. Read the news.com.au story.

Tobacco 'could help treat cancer'
July 22, 2008

The tobacco plant - responsible for millions of cancer cases - may actually offer the means to treat one form of the disease, a study suggests. US scientists used the plant to "grow" key components of a cancer vaccine. The National Academy of Sciences study suggests they could be used to tackle a form of lymphoma. Read the BBC story.

Cancer cure hope after discovery of genetic code
July 21, 2008

A CURE for breast and colon cancer could be a step closer after a scientist deciphered the genetic code of the tumours.

Dr Kenneth Kinzler will tell an Australian cancer conference this week of his revolutionary findings, which will lead to personal, tailor-made methods of treating the disease.

Dr Kinzler, of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, has identified the genetic make-up of tumours, which he believes will help to stop the spread of cancer and save lives. Read the Herald Sun story.

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