CANCER Council Victoria has noted a “concerning” decline in cancer diagnosis’ in 2020.
New data, released on December 9 2021, by the Victorian Cancer Registry (VCR) showed a seven per cent decline in diagnosis, as well as new statistics about regional Victoria.
The Cancer Council report that the decline in diagnosis is likely due to the pandemic with people not attending their regular check-ups.
The most common cancers that showed a decline in diagnosis were oral cavity, prostate cancer, melanoma, and bowel cancer.
Breast cancer in women also showed a five per cent decline.
VCR director Professor Sue Evans said that is is likely due to Victorians not attending screenings or assessments during the pandemic.
“Given the steep decline in cancer diagnosis between April and June 2020, we had anticipated seeing a high than anticipated number of diagnosis in the latter part of 2020, but this did not occur,” she said.
“As such, the deficit in diagnosis grew throughout 2020 for most cancers.”
The new data, featured in VCR’s report Cancer in Victoria Statistics and Trends 2020, also relayed disturbing statics for regional Victoria.
The report reads: “Regional Victorians are 40 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma than Victorians living in major cities.”
Additionally, it was found that regional Victorians are also 12 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with cancer overall.
However, the most common types of cancers are the same as those diagnosed in people living in urban Victoria.
Cancer Council Victoria chief executive officer Todd Harper is urging Victorians to prioritise their health.
“If you have been invited to participate in a cancer screening program, please don’t delay – please make that your first priority,” Mr Harper said.
“With 31 deaths form cancer every day in Victoria, we must act now to avoid a major health crisis.”
“Cancer screening saves lives – it is one of the most effective ways to detect early signs of cancer.”
