Taking action against brain cancer

This Brain Cancer Action Week (May 4 to 8) Cancer Council Queensland is taking action to raise awareness and offer support for those affected.

Brain cancer is one of the most lethal, yet understudied of all cancers. Risk factors are not easily identifiable, and no screening procedures currently exist.

Every year, around 310 Queenslanders are diagnosed with brain cancer and about 250 people die from the disease.

Brain cancer is the leading cancer killer for people under the age of 39 and children under 10. Sadly, just 25 per cent of people diagnosed with a brain tumour survive for at least five years.

The burden placed on patients and carers following a brain cancer diagnosis is significant – it is important for all of us to do what we can to offer support, and to provide better outcomes for those diagnosed.

Brain Cancer Action Week is a time to raise awareness about brain cancer in the community and to raise vital funds for much-needed brain cancer research.

We were inspired this week by Carrie Bickmore’s Gold Logie acceptance speech – touching millions and raising strong awareness about the impact of brain cancer on so many Australians.

We thank Carrie for her strength and bravery in sharing her story to educate Australians about the disease, encouraging support and funding toward the cause.

With media and community support, we hope to improve outcomes for brain cancer patients and their families.

Cancer Council Queensland runs a Brain Tumour Support Service – providing the latest treatment information, support and referrals to rehabilitation, along with practical assistance.

We continue to invest heavily into brain cancer research, yet more funding and awareness is needed to help identify people at risk, provide optimum treatment options and help develop new therapies and procedures that will extend the lives of brain cancer patients.

If you or somebody you love has been affected by brain cancer, please know that Cancer Council Queensland is here to offer support.

More information about the CCQ Brain Tumour Support Service is available via www.cancerqld.org.au or via Cancer Council’s 13 11 20.

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift


For more information or interviews, please contact:

Kim Ryan, Senior Media Specialist, Cancer Council Queensland

P. (07) 3634 5239 M. 0488 015 702