Head and Neck Cancer Australia

29/01/2026

Chrissy Wilson is back for her second year of Challenge 440! Last year Chrissy rallied her whole family to help raise awareness of Head and Neck Cancer in their community. This year the Wilsons have kindly shared their personal experience with the disease, and their story now features on our website.

Chrissy embodies exactly what Challenge 440 is all about: stepping into the shoes of people living with the long‑term impacts of Head and Neck Cancer and starting conversations about what makes these cancers different. Thanks Chrissy, you’re a superstar!

https://challenge440.raiselysite.com/

29/01/2026

Early detection saves lives. Sharing this with your network could help someone catch it early.
Head and Neck Cancer symptoms can be subtle at first, but if any of these last more than 2–3 weeks, it’s important to get them checked by a healthcare professional.

22/01/2026

Take on Challenge 440 to show solidarity with people affected by Head and Neck Cancer. You can get involved yourself or share it with friends to help start the conversation.
https://challenge440.raiselysite.com/

19/01/2026

We are thrilled to read today’s announcement that HMEs and other essential laryngectomy consumables will be fully funded in South Australia from mid-2026! This important and long-overdue win for people living with a laryngectomy in South Australia recognises what patients and families have been saying for years: these devices are not optional extras, they are critical to health and living well.

We want to acknowledge the tireless efforts of laryngectomy patients, their families, and dedicated clinicians across SA hospitals who shared insights and experiences and kept pushing until this change was delivered.

Congratulations to everyone who worked to get this across the line!

15/01/2026

Rugby fans may have seen this week former Fox Sports presenter and Daily Telegraph journalist, Paul Kent has opened up about his throat cancer diagnosis after feeling tired and finding a lump in his neck.

Paul shared his story candidly on the Kenty Prime Time podcast. One of the very first questions he was asked was:
“Have you ever smoked?”

Paul’s mindset may be one many people facing Head and Neck Cancer will recognise: “I’ve just got to get through it, do it my way and listen to the doctors and do all that. I’m very confident that I’ll get through it and I’m in reasonable shape for a bloke my age.”

His candid reflections should serve as a timely reminder that Head and Neck Cancers don’t always look the way people expect, are not always caused by smoking, and that early symptoms like lumps, fatigue or voice changes must be checked out by doctor.

Watch Paul speak openly on this week’s Kenty Prime Time (EP035):

We're back for 2026 with a bang! Kenty opens up about his cancer diagnosis and how it will effect him this year. Plus, a HUGE look at all the things that hap...

13/01/2026

Challenge 440 is back this March!

Will you step up to HANCA's monthly Challenge in recognition and support of the 440 Australians who are diagnosed with Head and Neck Cancer every month?
https://challenge440.raiselysite.com/

09/01/2026

Supporting someone with Head and Neck Cancer can be challenging in unique ways. HANCA's online Family and Friends Support Group is an understanding space for people who care for, and support loved ones throughout their treatment and long after.

Whether you’re a partner, family member, carer or friend register and connect with others who understand: https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/health-wellbeing/support-groups-for-head-and-neck-cancer/hanca-family-and-friends-support-group/

24/12/2025

Twelve years ago, on Christmas Eve, a generous philanthropic gift turned a dream into reality.

That incredible act of kindness, together with the passion of leading Head and Neck Cancer clinicians, sparked the beginning of HANCA - a community created so no one has to face Head and Neck Cancer alone.

From day one, our mission has been simple: to bring together clinical expertise and lived experience, offering trusted education, heartfelt support, and a strong voice for our community.
This year, we reached a new milestone: launching Australia’s first specialist Head and Neck Cancer Helpline. Already, it’s provided over 500 moments of comfort and clarity – expert guidance and emotional care when people need it most.

As we reflect on that defining moment 12 years ago, we look ahead with hope. In 2026, we’ll celebrate 10 years since HANCA officially launched, and we can’t wait to share that milestone with you - our incredible community.

Until then, thank you for being part of our journey. Wishing you a safe and peaceful festive season.

22/12/2025

Our Head and Neck Cancer Helpline will remain open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm AEST (Excluding public holidays).

If you need information, support or just someone to talk to, we’re here for you.

Call 1300 424 848 or visit https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/how-can-we-help/ to text chat with our specialist Helpline nurses.

21/12/2025

Eating during the Christmas season can be challenging for people living with Head and Neck Cancer. We’ve put together some gentle tips that may help make meals feel more comfortable and enjoyable. Swipe through for simple strategies you can use over the holidays.

Learn more through the resources available on website: https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/health-wellbeing/diet-and-nutrition/eating-socially/
Or call 1300 424 848 to speak with our specialist Helpline nurses.

19/12/2025

This year, Head and Neck Cancer Australia expanded our reach across the community, delivering new services, trusted information and meaningful support for people living with Head and Neck Cancer. Your generosity makes this possible.

Donate today and give the gift of support: https://hanca-christmas-appeal-2025.raiselysite.com/