LIFESTYLE choices and a lack of awareness have been identified as major factors in poorer cancer survival rates in lower socio-economic areas across this region.
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Figures released by the Cancer Council NSW show that 13 per cent of cancer related deaths up to five years after diagnosis would have been prevented without the socio-economic disparity.
Cancer Council NSW found that, out of 52,000 deaths in the study that were attributable to cancer diagnosis, around 13.4 per cent, some 7000 deaths, could have been prevented if the disparities didn’t exist, with the worst survival outcomes being for cancers of the bowel, lung, breast, prostate, liver and stomach.
Cancer Council New England community program co-ordinator Paul Hobson said the statistics and information were reflected in the region, too.
“Sometimes with lower socio-economic groups, education and aware- ness is not as timely and there seems to be a reluctance to go and get support,” Mr Hobson said.
Lower socio-economic areas were also more likely to be diagnosed at a more advanced stage for some cancers, according to the research, which Mr Hobson also said was a concerning factor.
Lifestyle factors were also posed as another influence in the recent figures “One third of cancers could be prevented through a healthy lifestyle. Healthy lifestyle practices could mean a head start on stemming cancer rates,” he said.
Mr Hobson said a whole of community approach was necessary to help close the gap in cancer survival rates.
Getting the message across on available services, understanding symptoms and building confidence in the support available would be key in closing the gap, according to Mr Hobson.
Cancer Council NSW said encouraging greater awareness and participation in government screening programs would be vital.
