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#NewNormalSameCancer

Many of us in the West know the awesome Sarah Powell, a breast cancer survivor, mum to two beautiful kids and the new CEO of the Pink Hope Community. She speaks from the heart:

As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the importance of an early diagnosis. The reality is I might not be here if I had delayed getting the lump in my breast checked.

In Australia, we have seen a concerning drop in cancer screening, pathology, and surgery. The threat of contracting coronavirus has resulted in many Australians deferring medical attention for new symptoms and/or preventing them from attending routine follow-up appointments.

But as we adjust to this new normal, we must ensure that we re-prioritise our health. Now is the time to focus on important health issues that we may have let slip over the last year; by re-booking your missed appointments & screenings or scheduling an appointment with your doctor.

Cancer cases do not disappear as a result of reduced screening, they simply remain undetected. And when cancer is diagnosed at a later stage, it is more difficult to treat and survival rates decline.

Pink Hope is part of a collective of patient organisations, urging people to return to their doctors. We do not want to see Pink Hope’s decade of life-saving advocacy work evaporate.

Our message is clear: Don’t wait. Contact your doctor. Get checked.

https://newnormalsamecancer.com.au/

Trans Awareness Week

Trans Awareness Week is a chance to celebrate the trans and gender diverse community. It’s also the ideal time to learn about gender diversity, and the importance of being a trans ally.

At Eleanor Clinic we embrace gender diversity and offer trans care, following the AusPATH model of gender affirming care for adults. We also proudly work together with the gender clinic at the Royal Children’s Hospital to support children and teens and their families.

Every year, Trans Awareness Week finishes with the whole community observing Trans Day of Remembrance. It’s a chance to celebrate the trailblazers throughout history that have fought for trans rights, and honour the ones who have lost their lives due to violence and discrimination.

It’s important to note that this sort of violence still exists, and isn’t just an ugly footnote in history – and that’s exactly the reason why Trans Awareness Week is so important. Everyone has the right to safe, inclusive health care – and we’re glad we can play a little part in that.

Men’s Health at Eleanor Clinic

#Movember-we accepted the challenge: A month of men’s health focus.

It’s great to see how many men have made use of our newly introduced men’s health appointment. It’s an opportunity to make sure your physical and mental health are all in top form. Much easier to fix problems while they are still small.

If you or a bro is feeling low there’s always help available. And there are choices – pick an option you’re comfortable with:

  • Talk to a friend
  • Call the MensLine on 1300 789 978
  • Make an appointment to see your GP

At Eleanor Clinic we offer men’s health check ups where we put a focus on specific men’s health issues. And, yes: there are check lists involved.

Movember is a good reminder on how important it is to take care of your health. And not just at this time of year. If you take the first step we’ll come along for the subsequent ones.

Globally, men die on average six years earlier than women, and for reasons that are largely preventable. Which means that it doesn’t have to be that way: we can all take action to live healthier, happier and longer lives.

HOW? HERE ARE OUR TOP FIVE THINGS TO KNOW, AND DO.

1Spend time with people who make you feel good.

Stay connected. Your mates are important and spending time with them is good for you. Catch up regularly, check in and make time.

2Talk, more.

You don’t need to be an expert and you don’t have to be the sole solution, but being there for someone, listening and giving your time can be life-saving.
70% of men say their friends can rely on them for support, but only 48% say that they rely on their friends. In other words: we’re here for our mates, but worried about asking for help for ourselves. Reaching out is crucial.

We need to talk
We need to listen

3Know the numbers.

At 50, talk to your doctor about prostate cancer and whether it’s right for you to have a PSA test. If you are of African or Caribbean descent or have a father or brother with prostate cancer, you should be having this conversation at 45. Know your numbers, know your risk, talk to your doctor.

Learn more about prostate cancer

4Know thy nuts. Simple.

Get to know what’s normal for your testicles. Give them a check regularly and go to the doctor if something doesn’t feel right.

Learn more about testicular cancer

5Move, more.

Add more activity to your day. Do more of what makes you feel good.

  • Take a walking meeting
  • Park further away from the station
  • Get off the bus a stop or two earlier
  • Instead of the lift, take the stairs
  • Cycle to work instead of driving