Hospitals bracing for cancer surge after diagnoses delays
Hospitals are bracing for a surge in cancer patients after many Victorians delayed seeking medical treatment due to COVID-19 lockdowns.
Prostate and bowel cancers, and melanoma, were among the most overlooked cancers in the state last year.
The Victorian Cancer Registry report indicates the backlog of missed screenings and diagnoses will mean increase demand on the healthcare system over coming months, or possibly even years.
CEO of the Cancer Council Victoria, Todd Harper, says it’s “understandable” that people have missed screenings.
“Now is the time to really think about your health and prioritise your health,” he told Ross and Russel.
“If we’re delaying going to the doctor and we’re delaying checking those symptoms … we can expect to see some of those cases emerging at a later stage and there might be more limited treatment options available.”
Press PLAY below to hear more about the Victorian Cancer Registry report