Together with Peter MacCallum and the Victorian Family Cancer Centres we've launched a world-first phone support program for people who carry genes that may increase their risk of developing cancer.
The Cancer Connect Gene Support Program will enable someone who has been tested and found to carry a cancer susceptibility gene to speak to a volunteer who is in a similar situation.
Dr Michael Jefford, Clinical Consultant for our Cancer Information and Support Service said results from recent research highlighted the need for this service.
"It can be frightening to find out that you carry a gene that increases your risk of developing cancer. Women who carry these genes have a higher risk of developing some cancers including breast, bowel and ovarian cancer. Men who carry these genes have an increased risk of developing some cancers including bowel, breast and possibly prostate cancer. These genes may also be passed on to children.
"People face a range of difficult feelings and treatment decisions. Speaking to a Gene Support volunteer is likely to help alleviate some of these concerns," said Dr Jefford.
Gene Support volunteers are men and women who carry cancer susceptibility genes and have been trained to help others feel less worried and more in control of their situation.
Gene Support volunteer, Dennis Burns was motivated to join the program after seeing his wife's reaction to the news he carried the gene that increased his risk of developing breast cancer:
"I half expected it because it was in the family but seeing my wife's shock made me realise how frightening the news can be for others. I want to inform others about the positive aspects of knowing you carry the gene; it doesn't mean we are going to get cancer; we are just at a higher risk and knowing means we can have regular check-ups and feel more in control of our situation," said Mr Burns.
Dr Jefford urges people who have been tested and found to carry the cancer susceptibility gene to talk to a gene support volunteer:
"We know from research how helpful it is to talk to someone who has been through a similar experience. People simply call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 to talk to a volunteer. A cancer nurse will match the caller to a volunteer who will call at home at a convenient time," said Dr Jefford.
We're inviting people who have an inherited change in a gene associated with cancer, to join our program as Cancer Gene Support volunteers. They will:
For more information or to become a volunteer, call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
