Cancer is now the second-leading cause of death across the world, with the number of new cancer cases expected to reach 30 million by 2040.
World Cancer Day’s three-year “close the gap” campaign aims to raise awareness and bridge the gap in cancer care, that exists for many populations.
Last year, in its first year, the campaign focused on understanding and recognising inequities in cancer care around the globe, which are driven by factors such as income, education, geographical location, disability, age, gender and ethnicity.
In 2023 the aim is to celebrate progress and to unite friends, family, co-workers and communities to call for change and action.
Mildura Health Private Hospital Chief Executive Officer Marcus Guthrie said in Sunraysia, the establishment of the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre is a huge leap in closing the gap for local cancer patients.
“For many patients, the burden of being treated away from home and support networks has a major effect on their wellbeing, not to mention the financial strain and interruption to a person’s everyday commitments,” Mr Guthrie said.
“In some cases, the burden of travelling large distances for treatment has resulted in patients choosing to forego treatment, has led to them eventually dying from cancer.”
However that is soon to be set right when, for the first time, patients will have access to close-to-home radiation oncology.
“Having the Mildura Health Icon Cancer Centre in the region will positively and significantly impact the lives of so many people both directly and indirectly,” Mr Guthrie said.
“Patients, carers, support workers, family and friends will no longer have to travel hundreds of kilometres outside the region for treatment, which is of great benefit in so many ways.”
Mr Guthrie said on World Cancer Day it was important to remember that regardless of geographical isolation and population size, the power of working together to beat cancer and support those with cancer should not be underestimated.
“Everyone can make a difference in reducing the impact of cancer.”
