Cancer will affect one in two Queenslanders in their lifetime. Learn what causes cancer and how they develop, grow and spread.

If you have just been diagnosed with cancer, or have a family member or friend who is affected by cancer you may be feeling a range of strong emotions. You may be experiencing fear, anger, disbelief, sadness, guilt, loneliness, loss of control or distress. Each person has their own way of coping, and these are…

Your doctors will perform a number of tests to obtain a diagnosis, determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body and develop a treatment plan. The tests you have depend greatly on the type of cancers and your specific symptoms. These tests may include: Physical examination Blood tests Biopsy Bone scan…

There are many types of cancer, each with its own treatment. Learn about specific cancer types.

Sometimes it is difficult to decide on the type of treatment to have. You may feel that everything is happening too fast. Check with your doctor how soon your treatment should start, and take as much time as you can before making a decision. Understanding the disease, the available treatments and possible side effects can…

Your cancer treatment will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer you have, where it began and whether it has spread to other parts of your body. It will also depend on your general health and the type of treatment you choose and are prepared to have. Your doctor should discuss treatment options…

Treatment side effects vary depending on the type of cancer you have, the stage of the cancer, and the type of treatment you are given. The changes can be both physical and emotional. Some side effects resolve quickly; others can take weeks, months or even years to improve. Your body will cope with the treatment and…

Conventional cancer treatments have been through a research process to see whether they work and are safe. This is known as evidence-based medicine. While some complementary therapies are supported by strong evidence, others are not. As their use increases, many are now being scientifically tested to see whether they are safe for people with cancer…

Many people now live for a long time after cancer treatment. After a cancer diagnosis, people are often kept very busy and preoccupied with medical appointments and the demands of treatment. The end of treatment may be a time when you realise the impact cancer had on you, your family and friends. Challenges will vary…

A carer provides unpaid care and support to a person who needs their assistance because of a disease such as cancer, or disability, mental illness or ageing. Anyone can be a carer regardless of your age, sex, sexuality, profession or cultural background. You may still be adjusting to the news that you need to care…

Advanced cancer is a term commonly used to describe primary or secondary cancer that is unlikely to be cured. Health professionals may also use the terms secondary, metastatic, and progressive cancer to describe cancer that has moved beyond early stages. Sometimes health professionals don’t use a particular name. While advanced cancer usually cannot be cured,…

Information and resources Cancer Council Queensland provides support, information and resources, at no cost, for people throughout Queensland. These services are made possible through the generous donations of Queenslanders and we thank them for their continued support. To ensure we can provide information to all Queenslanders, and due to increasing changes in information, please only…