Survivors

Survivors - ACSC

Cancer survivorship

Our aim is to help improve services and care for cancer survivors in Australia. We are doing this by advocating for and assisting the development of services, as well as promoting research, education and discussion within the health system to:
  • increase knowledge about the medical, emotional and practical issues faced by cancer survivors and their families and friends
  • enable survivors to get treatment that is based on sound evidence
  • encourage health professionals to work together to develop high-quality care
  • identify problems in the health system that are complicated or frustrating for survivors and encourage survivor-focused solutions.

For some people, being a ‘survivor’ begins when they start cancer treatment. For others, it begins after treatment, when they start seeing their doctor for follow-up. Some people feel like survivors for many years after finishing treatment and follow-up.

Being a survivor means different things to different people. However, almost all survivors share common issues. In some cases, they are issues that only affect cancer survivors.

  • Only a cancer survivor knows what it is to be fearful about the cancer coming back
  • Only a cancer survivor knows the anxiety before a follow-up visit to their doctor
  • Many survivors know that they could have effects later on from their treatment
  • Some feel frustrated about how their follow-up is being managed
  • Financial, family and emotional changes can also develop during and after cancer and treatment.

The ACSC is focusing on increasing awareness, especially about issues that affect survivors after their treatment ends. We believe that more awareness will bring about positive changes in the health system that will improve the care of cancer survivors.
Proudly supported by
  • Pratt Foundation
  • State Government of Victoria - Department of Health