Cancer Council will today celebrate 20 years of 13 11 20 in Queensland, with the cancer information and support service receiving more than half a million calls over two decades.
Over the past five years alone, around 68,000 Queenslanders have called Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 for resources, psychological support, prevention and research information.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said 13 11 20 played a vital role in ensuring all Queenslanders had access to support and information about all cancers.
“Over the past five years, 35 per cent of Queensland callers to 13 11 20 were seeking information about practical issues relating to a cancer diagnosis,” Ms Clift said.
“29 per cent of callers sought general cancer information and 13 per cent needed psychological or emotional support.
“Among local callers, 30 per cent were diagnosed with cancer, 21 per cent were friends, family and carers, and 16 per cent were health professionals seeking information and advice.
“13 11 20 enables Queenslanders to speak with a health professional about all questions relating to all areas of cancer – whether physical, emotional, psychological or practical.
“Our qualified health professionals offer information and advice about preventing cancer, ensuring early detection, understanding a diagnosis, treatment and recurrence.
13 11 20 also connects Queenslanders to vital local services, including CCQ’s ESA Wig and Turban Service, a Community Support Coordinator, Nurse Counsellor or vital transport services.
“13 11 20 also provides referrals to cancer counselling and practical support services for Queenslanders in need,” Ms Clift said.
“In the past five years, about 4000 callers were referred to CCQ’s Cancer Counselling Service and 610 callers were connected with a peer support volunteer.
“Cancer Council works tirelessly to support all Queenslanders affected by all cancers – if you or a loved one need support, reach out via 13 11 20 today.”
More than 26,000 Queenslanders are diagnosed with cancer each year, and about 8600 die from the disease.
Open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (excluding public holidays), Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 is a free, confidential service, supporting people in need thanks to the generous donations of Queenslanders.
For more information about Cancer Council Queensland, visit www.cancerqld.org.au or phone 13 11 20.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Executive Manager,
Media and Spokesperson,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5372
Mobile: 0409 001 171