Head and Neck Cancer Australia

22/10/2025

Chris O’Brien Lifehouse is running a study to understand how follow-up care can be improved for people who have finished treatment for Head and Neck Cancer.

If you have completed treatment, we invite you to take part in a one-on-one interview (45–60 minutes) with the research team. Interviews can be done by phone or video call at a time that suits you.

Your input will help Chris O'Brien Lifehouse design better models of care that meet the needs and preferences of people affected by Head and Neck Cancer.

To express interest, please complete the short form here: https://redcap.link/2cl2k7uj

If you have any questions, please contact the study coordinator:
Dr Poorva Pradhan Email: poorva.pradhan@lh.org.au
Phone: 02 8514 0428

20/10/2025

Our next Peer Support Group for people living with or beyond Head and Neck Cancer will be held online tomorrow:

Tuesday, 21 October 2025
12.00pm – 1.30pm (AEST)
Via Zoom

The group provides a safe and understanding space to connect with others who share similar experiences.

Register via https://hncpeersupportgroup.raiselysite.com/ or email helpline@headandneckcancer.org.au for more information.

15/10/2025

As HANCA CEO, Nadia Rosin told ABC News, too many people with Head and Neck Cancer are left unable to afford the prostheses they need to rebuild their lives.

HANCA is calling on the Federal Government to fund facial prosthetics nationally, ensuring equitable access for all Australians, no matter where they live.

Read the article:

A prosthetics provider has left Australians thousands of dollars out of pocket, some having to cope with ill-fitting or wrong-coloured fingers and eyes.

14/10/2025

We’d like to thank Michael Steele and his family for generously supporting HANCA and the Head and Neck Cancer Gala through Steele Consulting.

Mike was diagnosed in 2019 with a rare form of small cell carcinoma of the tonsil and neck. After chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, he reached remission in 2020. This year marks his five-year milestone, which he has chosen to celebrate by fundraising and supporting others.

In Mike’s words: “The significance of my journey and this remission milestone can serve as a vehicle to help others in need.”

We’re grateful to the Steele family for turning their experience into support for our community.

12/10/2025

Oral cancer can occur on the lips, tongue, gums, or inside the mouth.
Warning signs may include ulcers that do not heal, persistent pain, red or white patches, lumps, or difficulty swallowing.
Early detection and treatment save lives. Learn more: https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/types-of-head-neck-cancer/oral-cancer/

11/10/2025

A Head and Neck Cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Reliable information and support can make a difference.

Our resources can help you understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and where to find support for you and your family.
Learn more:

A diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer can be overwhelming and confusing. When first diagnosed, you may be in shock. This is normal.

11/10/2025

We’re pleased to share that strong advocacy is underway in South Australia to secure government funding for essential laryngectomy equipment.

A heartfelt thank you to Ange and Tony, who started a community petition and, together with Caroline Whiteford and A/Prof John-Charles Hodge, recently appeared before the Health Select Committee to give evidence on the urgent need for equitable access to heat and moisture exchange (HME) devices. The transcript is available through the committee's page on the SA Parliament website.

We also acknowledge the tireless efforts of many passionate advocates over the past decade who have kept this issue on the agenda and paved the way for progress.

The South Australian Government is now considering its position, and we’ll keep you updated as decisions are made.

10/10/2025

Researchers at The University of Melbourne are interested in psychological factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of anxiety in those who have had a diagnosis of Cancer.

Participation involves filling out a short online questionnaire at three time points, on your phone or your computer. You can choose to opt out at any time. Participants will have a chance to win 1 of 11 AUD$100 e-gift cards for completing both Time 1 and 2 surveys and another 1 of 11 AUD$100 e-gift cards after completing Time 3. Participation is voluntary and all data will remain confidential.

Study link: https://melbourneuni.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3Q4Xq5SH8H1NK3s

09/10/2025

World Mental Health Day serves as an important reminder that looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. If you need to talk, call our Head and Neck Cancer Helpline counsellor on 1300 434 848 or use the live chat on our website.

You’ll also find helpful resources to support your emotional wellbeing here: headandneckcancer.org.au/health-wellbeing/emotional-wellbeing

09/10/2025

Our next Head and Neck Cancer Peer Support Group virtual session is coming up, so be sure to put the date and time in your calendar.

Tuesday, 21 October 2025
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm AEST
Via Zoom

The last group meeting was a great success, with patients sharing their stories and experiences with peers who truly understand what they are going through. This time, we’ll be joined by Lee Anne Mundy, a highly experienced Head and Neck Cancer Dietitian from Tasmania. Lee Anne will give a short talk at the beginning of the session and stay around for a few minutes to answer questions.

Once you've registered keep an eye on your inbox for the Zoom link, which we’ll send out the week before. Register here: https://hncpeersupportgroup.raiselysite.com/

If you're looking for tailored guidance, support or counselling call the Helpline on 1300 424 848 or email helpline@headandneckcancer.org.au

07/10/2025

There are only a few tickets left for the inaugural Head and Neck Cancer Gala on 1 November at NSW Parliament House. Don’t miss this special evening honouring dedication and inspiring generosity.

Call 1300 424 848 to secure your spot before they sell out!
https://headandneckcancergala.org.au/

25/09/2025

Asking the right questions can help you feel more informed and supported during your Head and Neck Cancer journey. See our suggested questions for your health care team: https://www.headandneckcancer.org.au/head-and-neck-cancer-definition/questions-to-ask/