165418 - Recent advances in cancer and management of oncological emergencies

This session will provide information on cancer care for more efficient diagnosis and treatment of rural patients. Presenter will also discuss recent advances, new therapies, management of oncological emergencies and prophylactic measures

Cancer, along with cardiovascular disease, remains a major cause of death in Australians, despite considerable gains in cancer control over the past few decades.Cancer is the leading contributor to Australia’s total burden of disease and injury. It contributed 19% of total disability adjusted life years (DALY s) followed by cardiovascular disease (17%) and mental disorders (13%). (One DALY is equivalent to ‘one healthy year of life lost’ and attempts to take into account premature death and disability.) 

Improvements in cancer detection, treatment and an ageing population mean that there are increasing numbers of people living with and beyond cancer. Current hospital-centered models of cancer follow-up have tended to focus on detection of cancer recurrence, which may result in significant unmet needs, particularly psycho-social needs. 

General practice has an important role in the holistic care of cancer survivors and could take on an expanded role in cancer follow-up.