Caregivers show support for cancer patients

On Tuesday 4 February, caregivers across St John of God Subiaco Hospital’s Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre wore bright outfits in recognition of World Cancer Day, to show their support to patients and their loved ones impacted by the disease.

4 Feb 2020

4 February 2020

Organised by the Union for International Cancer Control, the day is held annually with the aim of reducing the global cancer burden.

In response to this year’s theme, ‘I Am and I Will’, a pledge board was also displayed in the Bendat Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre for caregivers, patients and visitors to share messages of hope.

St John of God Subiaco Hospital Chief Executive Officer Prof Shirley Bowen said: “World Cancer Day provides us the opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of early detection, which can positively impact patient outcomes.”

“We have provided cancer services and care to the Western Australian community since 1898, longer than any other private hospital in the State.

“Over the years, we have seen great improvement in survival rates for many forms of cancer. This is in part due to our focus on early detection and our ongoing investment in cancer research.

“In fact, we were the first private hospital in WA to establish a clinical trials unit. As a result, many of our patients can access leading treatments before they become widely available.”

Of St John of God Subiaco Hospital’s 50 active clinical trials, 45 are specific to cancer, with all of the facility’s oncologists and specialists involved in research.

St John of God Subiaco Hospital is also the highest recruiter worldwide for a number of ovarian and pancreatic cancer clinical trials, contributing to Western Australia’s excellent survival rates globally for these two conditions.