Today, Monday 4 September, is World Leukaemia Day and the Leukaemia Foundation is urging all Australians impacted by the disease to reach out for support by dialling Australia’s first dedicated blood cancer support line.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, more than 5,200 Australians are diagnosed with leukaemia each year, with this number set to more than double by 2035.
The Leukaemia Foundation’s 2023 State of the Nation Report revealed that seven in 10 people with a blood cancer like leukaemia will face emotional challenges, and almost 40 per cent of them have a lot of questions or feel completely uncertain about their diagnosis.
The introduction of Australia’s first and only dedicated blood cancer support line aims to ensure that every person facing blood cancer can access specialised support and services in one simple step.
“The Leukaemia Foundation’s experienced blood cancer support professionals are only a phone call away,” said Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti.
“The Leukaemia Foundation can offer these Australians access to life-changing, wraparound health services and support from the moment they are diagnosed, during treatment, and throughout their entire journey to remission and beyond.”
According to Mr Tanti, more Australians than ever are experiencing the devastation of leukaemia or another type of blood cancer diagnosis, and more support is desperately required.
“A blood cancer diagnosis can be devastating, disruptive and an emotional rollercoaster, with many Australians thrust into lifesaving treatment within hours of diagnosis,” Mr Tanti said.
“We urge every single person impacted by leukaemia, or any type of blood cancer including myeloma and lymphoma, to not delay and pick up the phone and call us today.”
Aussies living with blood cancer, undergoing treatment, in remission, carers or those grieving the loss of a loved one can now access guidance through the emotional, physical, and psychosocial challenges of blood cancer in a safe and supportive way. Anyone impacted by blood cancer, at any age and stage, can contact Australia’s blood cancer support line Monday to Friday by calling 1800 620 420 or visit bloodcancer.org.au
