HEALTH ..................... pages

Choice for cancer patients

By Tania Phillips

It started in memory of the late Kim Walters, wife of current Bronco’s coach Kevin Walters, who died of breast cancer in 1998 but the Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre has become a centre to support women and men of all ages as they go through and beyond the cancer journey.

According to Choices Clinical Nurse Manager Janine Porter-Steele the centre helps patients through the emotional turmoil and difficult decisionmaking process following a diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond, as patients focus on wellness after cancer.

As well as managing the Choices Program she is also active with in the program – supporting the team, volunteers and patients who come in.

“A lot of what I do is providing information around treatment, around the time of diagnosis, throughout treatment and beyond,” she said.

“My background is cancer care nursing and I’m a breast care nurse. I also have a research background which is kind of important for this program because we like to make sure that the things we do are evidence-based. At that rate we can make sure people get the very best we can give them. I’ve spent a lot of time talking about managing side-affects of treatment – that sort of thing. Another focus for me is keeping people well during treatment and post treatment.

“In the cancer world we tend to give people a prescription for everything else but when they finish treatment that’s often a time that people feel lost or alone. Everybody’s gone away because their treatment has gone away – there’s all of those lasting side-affects so I spent a lot of time in that space.”

She said even though they are part of the Wesley Hospital anyone can come to Choices.

“We don’t care where they’re treated or diagnosed – when they come here they can access me for those things we talked about and we’ve a peer-support co-ordinator – someone whose got that lived experience of cancer. That’s Leonie and she can support through all those practical things around managing in the context of family and friends – all sorts of things really. We also have a counsellor here for those other emotional needs particularly when they’re diagnosed or they have a reoccurrence.

“We all have distinct roles but they overlap a bit because we’re all providing information and support and we have a great group of volunteers who do things like answer the phones, make-up our folders, talk to people when they come in, make turbans for us – all sorts of things,”

She said Choices offered all sorts of programs though at the moment because of Covid they had to adapt and were doing quite a lot by Zoom.

“We have a yoga program, an art therapy program, writing therapy. When we were able to people in we have a specific gym program for during treatment and post treatment. We have complimentary therapies so we visit the wards, we have a therapist go to the wards particularly palliative care, oncology and those people can have Raki, reflexology or Indian head massage and we do that as an outpatient situation down here too.

“There are lots and lots of things coming on.”

Janine said people interested in the program can self refer, their doctors can refer, oncologists, surgeons, friends.

“They can just ring up – it’s pretty easy and we’re here for as much or as little as people need us,” she said.

Choices Clinical Nurse Manager Janine Por ter-Steele.

Life after mastectomy

The breast cancer journey is incredibly challenging, but one sacrifice you don’t have to make is how you look in your own clothes after recovery according to the team at Tracey G.

Some ladies choose the reconstruction path after mastectomy, but for those who don’t there’s no reason why they can’t look beautiful in their own clothes again.

Gone are the days where a lady has to settle for second best in terms of look and fit. No being uncomfortable all day in a poorly fitted bra and definitely no more “frumpy” lingerie.

The first step in regaining a silhouette are breast forms. There are dozens of shapes, weights and sizes to choose from which’ll match the remaining breast perfectly. If woman has had a bilateral mastectomy, the size they become is now up to them!

There are also breast forms that can be used whilst swimming or exercising, so their lifestyle doesn’t have to change.

Post mastectomy wear such as lingerie, swimwear, sportswear and casual wear have also gone ahead in leaps and bounds in terms of support, style and comfort.

According to the Tracey G team other great news is that the federal government will cover the cost of your breast prosthesis up to $400, per breast every two years for the rest of your life. Many private health funds cover the cost of post mastectomy garments.

The team believe the key to enjoying the fitting, and looking beautiful in your own clothes, is to have a professional fitting by a trained lingerie and prosthesis fitter.

At Tracey G Maroochydore and East Brisbane the team are Amoena trained and certified fitters and won’t be satisfied with your new look unless you are.

Some additional services they offer at Tracey G include a comprehensive range of post-surgical garments, full figure and maternity lingerie.

Tracey G Prosthetics and Lingerie are located in East Brisbane at 976 Stanley Street East and Norval Court Maroochydore. Contact us on 0466 828143 or go to traceyg.com.

A fitting.

A Bra for every woman

Now stocking more brands and the largest size range from AA to K.

Great news for the women of Brisbane who struggle to find a well - fitted bra. Our new bigger brighter store has enabled us to expand our range to include sports bras, full figure and maternity as well as our traditional post mastectomy wear. Our goal is expertly fit your bra so you feel amazing in your clothes. Visit our new store and experience the Tracey G service. 9 6 7 S TA NLE Y ST, E AST BRIS BANE • 0466 828 143

Health hub for Cher mside

Work has become on the $42 million Chermside Health Hub being built by Cornerston Healthcare.

CHP Fund Director Simon Heazlewood said late last month he was excited to break ground on the Chermside Health Hub, which he added would not only deliver 150 jobs during construction but also employ 100 health care staff at the facility once complete.

“This is a major milestone for Chermside and we are delighted to be able to provide a space for sustainable and quality healthcare jobs and services, particularly in response to the concerning predicted increase in demand,” Mr Heazlewood said.

“We are pleased to be in the final negotiations to lease approximately 30 per cent of the space and we are confident to attract more healthcare practitioners to the state-of-the-art facility once construction starts.

“We are currently speaking with a variety of interested specialists to complement the selection of services on offer at the Chermside Health Hub. We would love to see a day surgery and short-stay hospital included in the mix to complement our primary and allied health operators.”

Chermside Health Hub is located on the corner of the major intersection of Gympie Road and Rode Road and is strategically placed in the heart of the thriving north Brisbane business district.

“The building has been designed to achieve Class 9a healthcare building classification under the National Construction Code (NCC) to cater for hospital or surgical procedures,” Mr Heazlewood said.

“As with all our Health Hub projects we complete the whole process from acquisition, through construction and then remain involved as the building owner on completion.

“It is therefore very important to us that the Health Hub not only reflects our values, but has an integrated mix of services that delivers on the needs of the local community.

The Health Hub — built on a 2,663m² lot — will include 5,187m² in lettable space as well as 180 parking spaces, which is expected to be of great appeal to tenants given the limited street-side parking available in the area.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said as Brisbane’s population continued to grow, the Chermside Health Hub would cater for a need for more healthcare services by conveniently combining a suite of specialities in one facility.

“This $42 million fully-integrated health care facility will help meet the growing demand for health care services in the region and will provide the north Brisbane community with access to quality health care services, located within walking distance of both Prince Charles and St Vincent’s Private Hospital,” Mayor Schrinner said.

Federal Member for Petrie and Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services Luke Howarth MP, said the Chermside Health Hub not only addressed the growing need for healthcare services but was also expected to contribute to job creation and economic growth in the region.

“I’m delighted to join my fellow dignitaries to turn the sod on the Chermside Health Hub today and would like to congratulate CHP Fund on this great initiative which will deliver essential services to the local community,” Mr Howarth said.

“Today is not only exciting regarding the Chermside Health Hub addressing the increasing need for health care in our local community, but also as a catalyst to generate new jobs and the positive impact it will have on our local economy.

“Our jobs plan, outlined in the Federal Budget, is practical: protect jobs and connect people with jobs today, and skill up our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. Youth unemployment has fallen to its lowest level in 12 years and the Government remains committed to getting even more young Australians into work through education, training, and employment programs.

Construction is expected to be completed on the Chermside Health Hub by the end of 2022.

An ar tists impression of the new building.

Par kinson’s Disease and constipation set for study

Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 100,000 Australians and is the second-most prevalent neurodegenerative disease worldwide, with more than 10 million people suffering globally.

There are currently no early diagnostic markers and existing treatments can only lessen some symptoms.

Research increasingly points to the gut microbiome, (the bacteria that live in the gut), as playing a key role in the development of Parkinson’s, with evidence showing that changes in gut function often comes many years before the onset of classic symptoms.

A significant issue for those with the disease is a slow-down in digestive tract movement, leading to constipation, with up to 70 % of people with Parkinson’s disease experiencing constipation. Associate Professor John O’Sullivan and Dr Richard Gordon, of The University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research – Neuroscience (UQCCR), have begun a human trial in South East Queensland to treat constipation and gut dysfunction in people with Parkinson’s disease.

The purpose of the study is to determine the effectiveness of a prebiotic medication for the treatment of constipation and the restoration of the gut microbiome in people with Parkinson’s.

Participants must meet a specific criteria, they must have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and have three or less bowel movement days per week. More information to be obtained from the Health Section advertisement of this magazine.

Dr Richard Gordon, UQ Research Lead at UQCCR.

Tomorrow’s generation of allied health professionals are already ser vicing the community.

Student-led health care

Tomorrow’s generation of allied health professionals are already servicing the community, with The University of Queensland’s Health and Rehabilitation Clinics delivering client-focused services to seniors in the community.

Staffed by School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences students under the supervision of qualified health professionals, the Clinics provide audiology, physiotherapy and speech pathology services for a fraction of typical healthcare costs.

Clients experiencing hearing concerns can visit the Audiology Clinic for hearing assessments and personalised hearing rehabilitation, including evidence-based recommendations on the latest in hearing technology.

The Physiotherapy Clinic includes a dedicated Neurological, Ageing and Balance Clinic, providing services specific to older individuals for fall prevention, balance and neurological conditions, to improve confidence, independence and physical activity participation.

The Speech Pathology Clinic provides a range of services for adults with communication difficulties due to a neurological condition or incident, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease.

They also offer services for adults targeting voice disorders, accent modification and stuttering.

With a state-of-the-art telerehabilitation clinic, many services are available via telehealth or in person at the university’s St Lucia campus.

Contact the UQ Health and Rehabilitation Clinics via health-clinics.uq.edu. au, healthclinics@uq.edu.au or (07) 3365 2232.

New vaccination hub open

A mass vaccination hub has been established at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and is expected to operate until 9 October as under 60s now become eligible to register for vaccinations.

The hub is open seven days a week, from 8.30am until 4.30pm.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said vaccinations were vital to ending this pandemic and she encouraged all Queenslanders to register.

While Queenslanders are encouraged to get vaccinations from their GPs and pharmacists, the establishment of a hub at BCEC will add to the state’s extensive program.

“The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre is a great venue. Having a hub here will make it quicker and easier for people to get vaccinated,” the Premier said.

Free parking will be available for anyone receiving a vaccination at BCEC.

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the BCEC vaccination hub would take bookings only.

“No walk-ins will be allowed,” she said.

To register for a vaccination, visit vaccinebookings.health.qld.gov.au/ registerforvaccination/

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Know that skin cancer

Melanoma is among the top five causes of cancer death in Australia, claiming one life every five hours. In fact, Australia leads the world in skin cancer cases, with around 800,000 diagnoses each year.

Yet, 71 per cent of Australians have not had their recommended skin cancer check in the past year, and 39 per cent have never had a professional check.

“Many Australians don’t understand their risk of skin cancer, including potential deadly melanoma,” says Dr Alvin Prakash at the National Skin Cancer Centres in Coorparoo and Redcliffe.

Skin cancer can affect anyone, occur anywhere on the body, and may show no symptoms until an advanced stage. That is why it is so important to be aware of your own skin cancer risk.

Ninety per cent of people diagnosed with skin cancer are over age 40. The risk is also higher for people who have ever been severely sunburnt, used a solarium, worked outdoors, or had skin cancer before.

Other high-risk groups include people with multiple moles, fair skin or skin that burns easily, or light-coloured hair or eyes. For the earliest skin cancer detection total body photography / mole mapping is recommended for these high-risk groups.

Melanoma can also run in the family. If your parent, sibling, or child has had melanoma, your own risk increases by 50 per cent. Men also have 60 per cent greater chance of developing the disease.

In south-east Queensland, melanoma diagnoses reach up to 50 per cent above the national average, which is why experts recommend an annual head-to-toe skin cancer check.

A full-body skin cancer check is a comprehensive assessment of your entire skin surface with a Skin Cancer Doctor who uses special diagnostic and imaging tools to look beneath the skin for signs of malignancy that are often invisible to the naked eye.

Picking up these small changes early can significantly improve chances of successful treatment. In fact, 99 per cent of skin cancers are curable if detected and treated early.

“Early detection through regular full-body skin cancer checks is the best defence. Our mission is to detect skin cancers in the early stages to minimise complex, invasive, and expensive treatments, and ultimately save lives,” says Dr Prakash.

To learn more, please contact Coorparoo Skin Cancer Centre (phone 3324 0466) or Redcliffe Skin Cancer Centre (phone 3284 3030 or visit www. skincancercentres.com.au.

Know your skin cancer risk.

Millions set to flow for health ser vice expansion

The Palaszczuk Government is delivering an extra $163.7 million to create 351 new beds across Queensland’s hospital network.

The government’s record investment in health is part of the state’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan to create jobs while keeping Queenslanders safe.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the 351 new beds would help to tackle unprecedented demand in the public health system at a time when resources are also being prioritised for Queensland’s pandemic response.

“The health of all Queenslanders is my government’s greatest priority,” the Premier said.

“This pandemic has tested our health system. And with the delta strain now posing a significant threat to Queensland, we’re not out of the woods yet.

“This additional $163.7 million investment means 351 new beds through a combination of additional public hospital beds and the commissioning of beds from the private sector.”

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said Queensland’s health system was experiencing stronger demand for services than ever before.

“Activity across Queensland’s public hospital network is at an all-time high,” she said.

“Our doctors, nurses, paramedics and allied health workers are treating more patients than ever as we fight the deadliest global pandemic in a century.

“Delivering new beds at this time of peak demand will help to ensure Queenslanders can continue to access the quality health care they need.” The extra hospital beds will delivered in Hospital and Health Services where demand for services is greatest: · Cairns and Hinterland – 8 new beds · Darling Downs – 44 new beds · Gold Coast – 28 new beds · Mackay – 8 new beds · Metro North – 68 new beds · Metro South – 80 new beds · Sunshine Coast – 36 new beds · Townsville – 10 new beds · West Moreton – 57 new beds · Wide Bay – 12 new bed

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John and Andrea took the bowel cancer test but while Andrea’s came back negative, John’s didn’t and star ted him on a cancer journey.

John and Andrea enjoy time with their grand children after John’s cancer battle.

Call for more bowel cancer awareness

One in 13 Australians will develop bowel cancer. Knowing the signs, and regular screening are key to tackling the disease according to a respected colorectal surgeon.

Dr Graham Newstead, AM said more than 15,000 Australians were diagnosed with bowel cancer each year. Claiming more than 100 lives each week, it is Australia’s second deadliest cancer.

He said because bowel cancer often develops without any warning signs, participation in screening can help reduce bowel cancer incidence by detecting blood in the stool often invisible to the naked eye, which could indicate a precancerous lesion or existing cancer.

In between screenings, it’s important to stay bowel cancer aware and to speak to a GP immediately if possible symptoms are experienced for two weeks or more.

Causes of concern include rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, changes in bowel habit, weight loss you can’t explain, extreme tiredness for no reason, and/or a lump or swelling in your abdomen.

“Unfortunately, many people only act after they notice significant changes in their bowel habits, stool consistency or colour, or see blood on toilet paper or in the bowl. By this stage, it’s sometimes too late, which is why regular screening every one to two years from age 50 is vital,” Dr Newstead said.

Bowel cancer in seniors remains one of the most preventable cancers if detected early enough.

“When followed up by timely colonoscopy, cases of bowel cancer can be effectively treated 99% of the time,” he said.

Queenslander John Playford, or Townsville, was diagnosed with stage three rectal cancer at age 60.

“My wife and I had received the home screening test in the mail in the past, but because we were too busy at the time, or so we thought, we put the kits aside,” said John.

“When we both turned 60 in early 2019, we decided that we would do the tests.”

“My wife Andrea’s results were negative, but mine was positive and I was encouraged to visit my GP,” John said.

Following surgery and chemotherapy, John received good reports and he is recovering well.

“It seems I was fortunate to take the home screen test when I did,” John said.

Screening is easy and can be done at home using a faecal immunochemical test (FIT ). People aged 50 – 74 are eligible to receive a free test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Those ineligible for the NBCSP can purchase a Bowelscreen Australia kit in pharmacy, online or by calling Bowel Cancer Australia.

Dr Newstead said while certain risk factors can’t be changed, some diet and lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk. These include: · Quit smoking · Avoid processed meats and limit red meat consumption · Avoid weight gain and/or increases in waist circumference · If you drink alcohol, limit the amount · Eat naturally high-fibre foods · Be physically active as part of your everyday life · Participate in bowel cancer screening · If you carry an increased risk, speak to your GP about ongoing monitoring

For John, catching bowel cancer while it was still treatable made the difference between life and death.

“My experience is why I am keen to promote awareness of bowel cancer to my friends, their families, and all others,” he said.

For more information about bowel cancer and how you can reduce your risk, visit www.bowelcanceraustralia. org or call the free Helpline on 1800555-494

Bowel care

While there’s no specific diet that can cure bowel cancer, a wellrounded diet can reduce risks associated with the disease, says Professor Teresa Mitchell-Paterson, a qualified Nutritionist who holds a Master of Health Science in Human Nutrition.

A bowel cancer survivor herself, Teresa works as a member of Bowel Cancer Australia’s patient services team and credits switching to a plant-based diet, heavy in fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains for helping her recover, survive and thrive following her diagnosis.

Teresa recommends eating three serves of wholegrains, five serves of vegetables, two serves of brightly coloured fruits and two to three serves of dairy daily. She also suggests swapping out meat for plantbased options wherever you can.

“Eating too much red meat, which is beef, lamb, pork and goat, is definitely linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer,” said Teresa.

Studies show that bowel cancer risk increases by 17 per cent per 100 grams of red meat consumed per day and by 18 per cent per 50g of processed meat consumed per day.

“The more meat you eat, the more at risk you are.”

She recommends replacing beef, chicken, pork or lamb with vegetarian options, such as veggie patties in a burger or roasted cauliflower steaks instead of red meat, all of which can easily be found in the supermarket.

If you eat red meat, Teresa advises limiting the amount to 500g per week – which is equivalent to two very small steaks. She also recommends avoiding processed meats, such as bacon, ham, salami and some sausages.

Another way to reduce your bowel cancer risk is to increase your fibre consumption.

Fibre is abundant in many fruits and vegetables as well as wholegrains, which may explain why eating three servings of wholegrains a day, such as brown rice and quinoa, can reduce your risk of bowel cancer by 17 per cent.

“I’ve been a nutritionist for 30 years, and I always had a good diet but what I didn’t eat enough of was dietary fibre, so I’m very conscious of that now.”

Dairy products and calcium supplements are also associated with a decreased risk of bowel cancer. Consuming 200g of milk or 200mg of dietary calcium per day has been associated with a 6 per cent decrease in bowel cancer risk.

If you’d like to learn more about how you can reduce your bowel cancer risk www.bowelcanceraustralia.org/modifiable-risk-factors

For delicious and bowel friendly recipes visit www.bowelcanceraustralia.org/recipes

To speak with a Bowel Cancer Australia Telenutritionist call 1800 555 494 during business hours or visit www.bowelcanceraustralia. org/nutritionist