Our cancer experts including counsellors are here for all Victorians to help with any cancer related questions. Here we answer some of the questions we’re commonly asked.
Q. Our family has a history of cancer, could this be related to genetics?
A. One in two Victorians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, so it’s not uncommon for members of the same family to develop the disease. In some cases, genetics can play a part.
Cancer can occur in families:
• in an unrelated way, which is most often the case
• because family members have been exposed to the same environmental and lifestyle risk factors, exposure to UV, drinking alcohol or smoking
• because there is an inherited genetic condition which increases the risk of cancer, this can occur in up to 5 per cent of cancer diagnoses
• a combination of these different factors.
If you're concerned about your family's cancer history, call 13 11 20 or talk to your doctor who can refer you to a familial cancer centre.
For more information visit https://www.cancervic.org.au/cancer-information/genetics-and-risk/family-history-of-cancer.
Q. What can I do to support someone recently diagnosed with cancer?
A. Just as every cancer experience is different, everyone reacts differently to it.
Family, friends and workplaces all have an important role to play in providing comfort and practical support.
Reach out to your friend or family member to let them know you’re there for them. If they want to talk about their cancer diagnosis, one of the most important things to do is listen without judgement, acknowledge what they’ve told you, and give them your full attention.
Offering practical support like cooking meals or taking them to treatment are often welcome. Just remember to take your cues from them, don’t make light of the situation, or make comparisons with other cancer experiences. Ask their permission before sharing research or treatments you’ve heard about.
For information and advice, you can call one of our cancer experts on 13 11 20 or visit our website to learn more about caring for someone with cancer. This is a free and confidential service.
Q. I’m feeling financially overwhelmed with the costs of my cancer treatment, along with the cost of living, where can I get support?
A. Our Financial Counselling Program can link you with a financial counsellor who can give practical advice and guidance to manage the costs of a cancer diagnosis.
They can help you with navigating public and private healthcare, government benefits, superannuation, insurance, managing out-of-pocket costs, credit and debt issues. The service is confidential, independent and free for all Victorians.
Call 13 11 20 for support. You may also find this information about managing cancer and your finances or cancer and work helpful.
13 11 20 is the number to call for all Victorians affected by cancer
Our cancer information and support line is a free and confidential service, available for anyone with a cancer related question - for patients and their loved ones.
A cancer diagnosis has a massive effect on every aspect of your life and can be very overwhelming. With the support of Cancer Council Victoria, no one has to face cancer alone.
Our 13 11 20 team can help you find your way around the health system, provide emotional and financial counselling support, discuss your cancer and any side-effects you may be experiencing, help you care for someone with cancer, and much more.
The team is available to contact Monday to Friday, from 9am until 5pm, giving you an opportunity to talk to a cancer health professional and get the support you need when you need it most.
Contact cancer support
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