Queensland: Get the girls together now, to keep the girls together later!
This October Cancer Council is calling on all Queenslanders to unite in the fight against women’s cancers by hosting a Girls’ Night In fundraiser – and putting the spotlight on their own health.
One in six Queensland women will be diagnosed with breast or gynaecological cancer in their lifetime.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift encouraged all women to make a date for Girls’ Night In and show their support for other women impacted by cancer.
“This year alone, around 4200 Queensland women will be diagnosed with breast or gynaecological cancer and around 850 will die from these women’s cancers,” Ms Clift said.
“Whether you hold a pink dress-up day at work, invite your friends around for a pyjama party or movie night, or head to the park for a pink afternoon tea – there’s plenty of ways to support the campaign this year.
“Events like Girls’ Night In raise funds to allow Cancer Council to work across every aspect of women’s cancers, from research to prevention, support and advocacy.
“This month also provides a great opportunity to reach out to your loved ones – ask about their health, encourage them to get screened, lend a helping hand or be a listening ear.
“The good news is that you can take simple measures to reduce your overall cancer risk.
“Up to one third of all cancers can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, being physically active, staying SunSmart and getting screened.
“Simply get the girls together for a fun night in and donate what you would normally spend on a night out – your contribution will support women impacted by cancer through our vital work in women’s cancers research, education and support services.”
This year Cancer Council Queensland aims to raise $1.9 million through Girls’ Night In, including Pink fundraising events.
This October, you can support the fight against women’s cancers by registering to host a Girls’ Night In fundraiser, pink event or purchasing merchandise on the official Pink Ribbon Day (October 26).
For more information about Girls’ Night In, visit www.girlsnightin.com.au or call 1300 656 585.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via www.cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.
Girls – to help detect cancer early, be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to a GP immediately. Look for:
• Lumps, sores or ulcers that don’t heal.
• Unusual changes in your breasts – lumps, thickening, unusual discharge, nipples that suddenly turn inwards, changes in shape, colour or unusual pain.
• Coughs that don’t go away, show blood, or a hoarseness that hangs around.
• Weight loss that can’t be explained.
• Any loss of blood, even a few spots between periods or after they stop.
• Moles that have changed shape, size or colour, or an inflamed skin sore that hasn’t healed.
• Blood in a bowel motion.
• Persistent changes in toilet habits.
• Persistent abdominal pain or bloating.
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
Ph: (07) 3634 5372 or 0409 001 171
For more information, please contact:
Kim Ryan, Senior Media Specialist, Cancer Council Queensland
P: (07) 3634 5239 M. 0488 015 702