12 May 2021
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service has been presented with a Governor-General’s Medallion in recognition of its significant contribution to quality cancer care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The award coincides with International Nurses Day 2021 (May 12) which aims to recognise and celebrate nurses. This year the theme is Nurses: A voice to lead.
“Linda and I are proud to be associated with organisations like the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. The contribution that the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia make in our community is considerable,” His Excellency said.
“We would like to thank you for your work, passion and commitment.”
PCFA support more than 80 Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses right across the country, providing much-needed targeted care and support to men and their families impacted by prostate cancer.
PCFA CEO Professor Jeff Dunn AO commended the nurses on their extraordinary efforts in the fight against prostate cancer.
“Today, on International Nurses Day, we want to take the time to recognise the dedication and spirit of our nurses – they do an extraordinary job supporting cancer patients at their most vulnerable time,” Prof Dunn said.
“Last year in particular, when the pandemic hit, our nurses went above and beyond to ensure that men still had access to adequate support and care and have been a pillar of support to so many people through this time.
“Prostate cancer is the most common cause of cancer in Australian men, with nearly 17,000 men newly diagnosed each year. Sadly, each year in Australia about 3,100 men will die from the disease.
“Many men with prostate cancer experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, and struggle to cope with the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. Our specialist nurses play a critical role in providing guidance, care and support through this time.
“From the point of diagnosis, our nurses will offer expert education and information about treatment plans, referrals to services both in the hospital and community, and provide an ongoing point of contact and support for men and families.
“Good support and connection to information and services is incredibly important in a diagnosis of prostate cancer.”
Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses are now also available via a new PCFA telenursing program, helping to further improve access to support for those living regionally.
By 2040 about 372,000 men will be living with or beyond prostate cancer in Australia, representing a 68 per cent increase from 220,000 today.
Australia has one of the highest rates of prostate cancer in the world, with one in every six Australian men likely to be diagnosed by age 85.
The medallion was one of a series presented by the Governor-General to community groups in the wake of the pandemic.
For more information about the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing program, or for support, visit pcfa.org.au or call 1800 22 00 99.
ENDS
Media contacts:
PCFA: Laura McKoy | M. 0435 094 788
