Cancer Council Queensland quickly responded to the needs of cancer patients in the aftermath of Cyclone Yasi and recent floods.

With more than 21,000 Queenslanders diagnosed with cancer each year, and an estimated 160,000 Queenslanders alive today following a cancer diagnosis, many patients have been hard hit by the cyclone in North Queensland and statewide flooding.

The head of our Community Services team, Claire Kelly, says the impacts of a natural disaster can exacerbate the distress experienced by many cancer patients.

“For cancer patients who are already coping with the challenges of cancer and cancer treatments, a natural disaster can compound life stresses.

“Normal reactions include feeling overwhelmed, not being able to concentrate or make simple decisions, difficulty sleeping and frequent thoughts and images of distressing events. Although these reactions usually become less severe as time passes, it’s important to provide patients with specialised support to enable adjustment and coping.

“When natural disasters occur, access to treatment services and other avenues of support may also be restricted and treatment routines may change.

“Our Helpline remained on call during recent flood and cyclone emergencies to provide patients and the community with advice and information about health services and support.

“We were on alert to provide emotional support as well as practical advice.” We also published a fact sheet on our website to help patients with coping after a natural disaster.

“The fact sheet was designed to help patients make informed decisions about their options for accessing appropriate care and support during the clean-up and recovery.”

Ms Kelly reminded cancer patients in regions affected by the cyclone and floods to be careful to protect themselves from infections.

“Some kinds of cancer and some treatments for cancer can weaken the immune system, making patients or recent patients susceptible to infections.

“If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment, or if you are weakened by your previous treatment, always avoid exposure to contaminated sites.

“We recommend patients and recent patients absolutely avoid contact with mud and mould.

“We understand the need to return home as soon as possible, but it’s important for cancer patients to avoid exposure to germs in order to maintain wellness and optimise their recovery.

“People who’d like cancerrelated information and assistance after the cyclone and floods can phone our Helpline for information, support, and referrals, on 13 11 20.”

For a copy of the fact sheet click here or phone our Helpline team on 13 11 20.