By Jessica Micallef
More than 300 Macedon Ranges locals are diagnosed with cancer each year, the Cancer Council Victoria has revealed.
Close to 90 residents also lose their lives to the disease in the same time period.
The data forms part of the new Victorian Cancer Registry Data, which was released in the lead up to World Cancer Day last Thursday, to make people aware of the burden cancer can have on the community.
Of the new cancer cases in the Macedon Ranges each year, 21 people are diagnosed with lung cancer, 33 with melanoma, 28 with bowel cancer, 40 with breast cancer and 66 with prostate cancer.
Cancer Council Victoria chief executive Todd Harper said he encouraged residents to do everything they could to help reduce their cancer risk.
“Whether it’s going to get your cancer screening done that you’ve been putting off, making a call to the Quitline or remembering your hat and being SunSmart, there are so many options, big and small, that we can all take to reduce our cancer risk,” he said.
“In 2020, many Victorians delayed general health check-ups and screenings because they were nervous about visiting their doctors due to COVID-19.
“I urge all Macedon Ranges locals that now is the time to put you and your health back at the top of your to do list.”
According to Cancer Council Victoria, one third of cancers can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes such as getting checked, maintaining a health weight, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet, being physically active and not smoking.
Mr Harper said that cancer screening saved lives and was one of the most effective ways to detect early signs of cancer when successful treatment was more likely.
“We were concerned to se a drop in screening rates across the board last tear due to COVID-19 restrictions, meaning cancers may be detected later when there may be fewer treatment options available,” he said.
“If you have received an invitation to participate in a cancer screening program, please do not delay.”
