PCFA
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia has seen a significant spike in distressed men reaching out for support via its new telenursing service, with COVID lockdowns adding to patient stress levels.
Around 70 per cent of callers report moderate or high levels of distress, as many struggle to cope with ongoing uncertainty and the side-effects of their treatment.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australian men, with over 16,000 diagnosed each year and around 230,000 Australian men living with the disease and its long-term side effects.
PCFA CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO said many men were suffering in silence.
“What we’re seeing is really concerning and reinforces the vital need for more support services for men with prostate cancer, and their families,” Prof Dunn said.