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Stakeholder toolkit

Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection campaign is supporting Victorians to put cancer screening and early detection back on the agenda. To achieve this, we’re working with health professionals across a range of disciplines to address the missing cancers that went undiagnosed during the pandemic. 

What you’ll find on this page:

Early Detection Campaign background

Over the last few years, the attitudes of Victorians towards health seeking behaviours have changed. People have changed how they prioritise their health, only seeking help for serious, acute issues and putting off anything they perceive to be non-essential. Insights show that some patients delay or hesitate to book appointments with their doctor to discuss cancer symptoms or for cancer screening as they believe they will not be able to access a health system that is overburdened and that non-urgent issues are not a priority to healthcare providers.

These perceptions may be further reinforced when they find it difficult to get an appointment with their usual HP or if they need to wait for longer than they usually would, as well as a noted increase in cost of GP services and reduced availability of bulk billing. Further qualitative research has also identified prevalent beliefs in the Victorian community that telehealth is preferred by GPs rather than face-to-face, and that consultations have been shortened and limited to the presenting issue, with little opportunity to discuss symptoms or raise concerns. This further deters individuals from booking appointments to discuss cancer screening or unexplained symptoms that may be a sign of cancer.

The Victorian Cancer Registry reported a 7% decline in cancer diagnoses in 2020, with diagnoses declining again in 2021 by 4.3%. This represents around 3,800 fewer cancer diagnoses in Victoria over 2020 and 2021 ( VCR Report, 2022). This is likely because the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the number of Victorians coming forward for cancer screening, testing and subsequent diagnoses.

The Victorian Cancer Registry also reported that the greatest decline in cancer diagnoses occurred in bowel cancer (846 fewer diagnoses), melanoma (827), blood cancers (644), prostate cancer (625) and breast cancer (395) (VCR, 2022).

To address this issue, Cancer Council Victoria is working with a broad range of health professionals to deliver a Victorian Government Department of Health funded Early Detection campaign.  The campaign is informed by Cancer Council Victoria’s Behavioural Insights Research and community consultation which highlighted the need of Victorians to be reassured by doctors to book appointments for symptoms or cancer screening. This campaign will address many cancer types as well as all three national cancer screening programs. In addition to these messages, we will also engage with Mandarin and Arabic speaking audiences through targeted messages and through our partners. If you work or treat any patients who speak these languages, you will find translated materials on this page.

 It is a critical time to change the narrative after so many significant changes to our health system, to ensure Victorians know they can and should make an appointment to get a symptom checked or to discuss cancer screening.  However, we need health professionals to support this message. Research shows that patients are more likely to participate in cancer screening if advised by their doctor or a health professional.

How you can help

It is important for health professionals to opportunistically ask their patients if they’re up to date with cancer screening and if they have noticed any new unexplained changes in their body that could be a sign of cancer.

We also know that being proactive and checking if your patients are up to date with their bowel, breast and cervical cancer screening can encourage participation. You can:

  • Discuss cancer screening during an appointment.
  • Check if you patient is up to date with bowel and cervical screening through National Cancer Screening Registry (NCSR) portal
  • During consultations, reassure your patients that if they notice any symptoms, even if their previous screening test was normal, that it's important to see a doctor without delay.

To support you with these actions, Cancer Council Victoria have developed an Early Detection website to learn more about cancer symptoms and screening. Patients can also speak to an experienced cancer nurse on 13 11 20 to learn about early detection and cancer screening, as well as for support for cancer patients.

In addition to these above activities, use this kit to promote messages through your networks.  

We really appreciate your support. Don’t forget to tag us: @cancervic

Early Detection key messages for Victorians:

  • We know life has been challenging these last few years, with changes to accessing health care or changes to health priorities which has resulted in less cancers being detected among Victorians. So, we're supporting all Victorians to get up to date with cancer screening and increase their understanding of early detection behaviours to help find cancer early.  
  • Early detection can save your life. The earlier cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
  • Cancer screening can detect early stages before you notice anything. The earlier a cancer is treated the better for you.
  • It is important to protect yourself from cancer, through regular cancer screening and seeking medical support if you notice a change or unexplained symptom.
  • One third of cancers can be prevented. Discover simple lifestyle changes that can help reduce your risk which include quitting smoking, reduce your intake of alcohol, eat a healthy diet, keep physically active and protect your skin from UV using all five forms of sun protection. Learn more about how to protect your health through cancer prevention at www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/preventing-cancer.
  • Visit Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection website to better understand cancer symptoms and cancer screening programs you need to be aware of. 
  • If you’re not sure about symptoms or need general cancer information and support, call 13 11 20 and speak to one of Cancer Council Victoria’s experienced cancer nurses.

Social media tiles

Health professionals communications

Sample social media posts for health professional audiences:

Sample post 1

Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection campaign is supporting Victorians to get up to date with cancer screening and increase their understanding of early detection behaviours to help find cancer early. Help us to by encouraging patients to book an appointment to discuss cancer symptoms and screening. #CancerScreening #EarlyDetection

Sample post 2

Join us in prioritising cancer screening and early detection for better health outcomes in Victoria! Use appointments and communicate to your patients about what to do if they notice unexplained symptoms or changes and encourage them to book an appointment at your clinic. You can also support eligible patients to get up to date with cancer screening. Visit Cancer Council Victoria's Early Detection website for more information www.earlydetection.org.au  #CancerScreening #EarlyDetection

Newsletter copy for HCP audiences

 It’s time to take urgent action to address alarming number of missing cancers

Health professionals play a crucial role in addressing the 3,800 fewer cancer diagnoses in Victoria across 2020 and 2021. The Victorian Cancer Registry reported that the greatest decline in cancer diagnoses occurred in bowel cancer (846 fewer diagnoses), melanoma (827), blood cancers (644), prostate cancer (625) and breast cancer (395) (VCR, 2022). Encouraging cancer screening, educating patients about symptoms, and promoting awareness is vital. Access resources from Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection campaign to educate patients and communities. Let's work together to prioritise cancer screening and early detection for better health outcomes in Victoria.

For more information, visit www.earlydetection.org.au

  Prioritising Cancer Screening and Early Detection: A Call to Action for Health Professionals

Over recent years, there has been a noticeable change in people's attitudes towards health checks and health-seeking behaviours, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant effect on cancer diagnoses in Victoria. According to the Victorian Cancer Registry ( VCR) Report of 2022, there has been a concerning 7% decline in cancer diagnoses in 2020, with a further decline of 4.3% in 2021, resulting in approximately 3,800 fewer cancer diagnoses in Victoria over the past two years. The VCR also reported that the greatest decline in cancer diagnoses occurred in bowel cancer (846 fewer diagnoses), melanoma (827), blood cancers (644), prostate cancer (625) and breast cancer (395) (VCR, 2022).

Health professionals play a crucial role in advocating for cancer screening and early detection to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. Insights from Cancer Council Victoria have found some patients may not be aware of the availability of appointments for discussing cancer symptoms or for cancer screening. Now is the time to reinforce the importance of cancer screening and early detection to all patients and encourage them to take proactive steps towards protecting their health.

Research has consistently shown that patients are more likely to participate in cancer screening if advised by their doctor or a health professional. Therefore, it is imperative for us to actively advocate and encourage all eligible Victorians to participate in breast, bowel and cervical cancer screening. During patient consultations, make sure to inquire about their cancer screening status and ensure they are up to date with recommended screenings. Emphasise the importance of regular screenings for bowel, breast, and cervical cancer in detecting potential cancers early and increasing the chances of successful treatment outcomes.

It is crucial to educate patients about the common symptoms of cancer including skin cancer which is one of the top five missing cancers according to the VCR report. As well as the importance of reporting any unexplained changes or symptoms promptly. Encourage them to contact your clinic for appointments if they notice any unusual symptoms or changes and to know what those symptoms could be.

Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection website www.earlydetection.org.au  can educate patients about cancer symptoms, screening recommendations, and available resources. This website can serve as a valuable tool in promoting cancer screening and early detection among your patients and communities.

As health professionals, you have a critical role in prioritising cancer screening and early detection in your community. By encouraging cancer screening, educating your patients, and promoting awareness, you can make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.

For more information and resources about cancer screening and early detection, visit the Cancer Council Victoria website at www.earlydetection.org.au

Consumer facing communications

Sample social media – for consumer-facing channels

Sample post 1

Early detection can save your life. Protect yourself from cancer by participating in cancer screening when due and seeking medical support for any unexplained changes or symptoms. Learn more at Cancer Council Victoria's Early Detection website. www.earlydetection.org.au  #CancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives

Sample post 2

Don’t ignore unexplained symptoms or changes to your body. We want to see you. Book an appointment with our (INSERT CLINIC NAME). #HealthCheck #CancerScreening

Sample post 3

Don't put off cancer screening. It's important to prioritise regular screening for bowel, breast, cervical cancer. Our (clinic/organisation) can support you to get up to date and answer your questions. Let's catch cancer early and save lives. #EarlyDetection #CancerAwareness

Sample post 4

Know how to check your skin for changes and protect yourself against skin cancer. If you notice any new dots or spots, or changes to spots and dots, don’t delay and book an appointment with your doctor. Learn more

Newsletter copy for general public

 

Catching missed cancers through early detection and cancer screening

We're here to support all Victorians in staying up to date with cancer screening and understanding early detection.

Protect yourself with regular cancer screening and see a doctor without delay if you notice any unexplained symptoms or changes. Remember, early detection saves lives.

Visit Cancer Council Victoria's Early Detection website for info on symptoms and cancer screening. For support, call 13 11 20 to speak with experienced cancer nurses.

  Prioritising Cancer Screening and Early Detection: A Call to Action for Victorians

Over the past two years, there has been a significant shift in Victorian’s attitudes towards health checks and health seeking behaviours. According to the Victorian Cancer Registry ( VCR) Report of 2022, there has been a 7% decline in cancer diagnoses in 2020, with a further decline of 4.3% in 2021, resulting in approximately 3,800 fewer cancer diagnoses in Victoria over the past two years.

This decline is likely due to fewer Victorians coming forward for cancer screening, testing, and subsequent diagnoses. Cancer Council Victoria has found that Victorians delay or hesitate to book appointments with their doctor to discuss cancer symptoms or for cancer screening as they believe they will not be able to access a health system that is overburdened and that non-urgent issues are not a priority to healthcare providers. These perceptions may be further reinforced when they find it difficult to get an appointment with their usual HP or if they need to wait for longer than they usually would, as well as a noted increase in cost of GP services and reduced availability of bulk billing. This is a cause for concern as early detection of cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives.

However, Cancer Council Victoria’s newest campaign Early Detection Saves Lives has been created in partnership with a broad range of health care professionals who all want to see patients who may have cancer symptoms and to support those who are due get up to date with cancer screening.

As Victorians, it is crucial for us to prioritise cancer screening and early detection. In addition to seeking advice from your healthcare provider, the Cancer Council Victoria’s Early Detection website www.earlydetection.org.au  is a valuable resource that provides information about cancer symptoms, screening recommendations, and what to do if you have concerns.

During consultations with your healthcare provider, make sure to ask about your cancer screening status and ensure you are up to date with recommended screenings. If you notice any symptoms, do not hesitate to call your clinic and book an appointment. Early detection can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment.

As a community, we need to prioritise our health. Remember, early detection saves lives.

For more information about cancer screening and to learn about symptoms, visit the Cancer Council Victoria website at https://www.cancervic.org.au/ .

Support Mandarin and Arabic speaking communities

Part of Cancer Council Victoria's Early Detection campaign is addressing relevant barriers and providing information in language to Mandarin and Arabic speaking communities. Health professionals and organisations that support people who speak these languages can use translated tiles and direct audiences to our dedicated website pages that have been translated and host relevant translated resources.

Translated resources

Consumer facing communications for CALD audiences  

Sample social media – for consumer-facing channels  

Mandarin  

Sample post 1: 

及早检测可以挽救生命,帮助我们预防癌症 earlydetection.org.au/mandarin

English translation: Early detection saves lives and helps protect us against cancer. 

Sample post 2: 

请向医生咨询如何尽早发现癌症,他们期待您的预约。earlydetection.org.au/mandarin

English translation: Doctors are available to speak to you about finding cancer early and they want to see you! 

 

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Arabic

Sample post 1:

earlydetection.org.au/arabic الاكتشاف المبكر للسرطان ينقذ الحياة ويساعد على حمايتنا من السرطان

English translation: Early detection saves lives and helps protect us against cancer.

Sample post 2: 

earlydetection.org.au/arabic الأطباء متاحون للتحدث معك حول اكتشاف السرطان مبكرًا ويريدون رؤيتك

English translation: Doctors are available to speak to you about finding cancer early and they want to see you!

 

Download

 

Cancer Council Victoria’s website has a new tool called ‘Recite Me’ which allows uses to translate the website in any language. If you work with communities outside of our defined language groups, we encourage you to promote this new feature.

Watch our video below to see how to use it.

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Find resources and more information for health professionals

Learn more about early detection and increase cancer screening participation including resources for patients.

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