11 December 2024

Australia’s only dedicated prostate cancer telenursing service has received over 4,200 calls in 2024, with more men reaching out for evidence-based information and support than ever before.  

Calls made to Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s (PCFA) Prostate Cancer Specialist Telenursing Service in 2024 represent a significant nine per cent increase from 2023, highlighting a growing need for information and accessible support for those impacted by the disease. 

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 26,000 men diagnosed this year alone.  

Since the Telenursing service launched in 2021, nurses have taken over 15,000 calls and supported over 5,500 people. 

Nearly 800 of those people have gone on to receive free counselling through PCFA, aimed to reducing the distress and anxiety experienced as a result of a diagnosis.   

Bernie Riley, Head of Telenursing and Supportive Care Programs said demand continues to increase as more men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.  

“With over 72 Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer each day, our Telenursing Service and Counselling Service has become a vital source of information and support for those in need,” he said. 

“We know through research that access to telenursing can improve patient well-being and symptom management. 

“Our services also provide an important lifeline for partners and family members who need guidance and information on supporting loved ones through a diagnosis.  

“Over the past four years this service has successfully bridged a gap in patient care, particularly for regional and remote patients. 

“This service ensures that all men and their partners, no matter where they live, have access to clinical support just by picking up the phone.” 

Mr Riley said that callers reached out for a range of reasons. 

“Around 72% of callers have prostate cancer or are living after a diagnosis and need support and advice with all aspects of the disease, from understanding treatment options, dealing with worry and uncertainty, sexual health issues, to managing urinary incontinence,” he said.  

“In addition to patients calling, we also take calls from those looking for information about risk factors and PSA testing and from partners or carers who need support. 

“No matter what you need support with, we are here to help and can also provide referrals to other services, including PCFA’s Counselling Service. 

“Just one call to a Telenursing Specialist can improve a man’s life living with prostate cancer.” 
 
Facts 

Here are some fast facts about the Prostate Cancer Telenursing Service:  

  • 72% of callers have been diagnosed with prostate cancer or are living after a diagnosis. 
  • 11.6% of callers are men wanting more information about their risk or testing options. 
  • 13% of callers are partners and daughters looking for advice on how to support a loved one with prostate cancer. 
  • 36% of all callers are from regional and remote areas of Australia where access to specialised prostate cancer support may be more challenging. 

PCFA is just one call away. To find out more or to access free support, call 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.prostate.org.au.