The theme highlights that our actions have an impact on everyone around us and the enduring power of collaboration. Working towards a healthier and brighter world can improve outcomes for those with cancer. Together, all of our actions matter.
The Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate Cancer Trials Group (ANZUP) has launched an appeal to raise $50,000 to be used to fund a penile cancer research project to help improve treatments and outcomes for both the patient and their partner.
The penis commands so much attention during a man’s life. No one wants to think about penile cancer, let alone the possibility of having to lose it. But it happens and funds are needed to support vital research into this rare cancer.
Penile cancer falls within the rare cancer category with a reported incidence of 1 per 100,000 of the population. It’s embarrassing to talk about but is a cancer that affects over 130 men every year. It can be cured if diagnosed early, but if the cancer spreads then it can be a death sentence – the five-year survival rate is approximately 50%.
Due to the low number of people diagnosed with these cancers, the amount of research and clinical trials undertaken on these rare disease types is drastically less than those with common cancers.
“This means we have less information about these cancers, there is less community awareness, and diagnosis might be delayed. The only way we can work to improve the diagnosis and outcomes for these cancers is to increase the focus on research, and to ensure we work together effectively to give the best possible outcomes.” ANZUP Chair Professor Ian Davis said.We have very little information about how various health care services and systems work with the patients and their partners and families. A better understanding of this will help to ensure the best possible physical and mental outcomes.
“The rarity of penile cancer represents a significant challenge to the patient, partner, and healthcare professional from initial diagnosis to treatment and into survivorship. More research is needed.” Associate Professor Catherine Paterson said.
The appeal is calling on the community to support this important research appeal and make a difference to penile cancer for now and future generations. ANZUP plans to undertake research involving all disciplines (including oncologists, nurses, urologists, psychologists, sex therapists, and plastic surgeons), and including recruitment across Australia of penile cancer sufferers and their partners to gain a comprehensive picture of how this disease can best be treated now and into the future.
Help us raise $50,000 for penile cancer research and together our actions will matter.
Penile cancer research in Australia and how YOU can help!
Source: Anzup.org.au. 2021. ANZUP - Improving outcomes for Bladder, Kidney, Testicular, Penile and Prostate Cancers.