Professor Dorothy Keefe, the CEO of Cancer Australia, shares her insights in this exclusive interview. With decades of experience as a medical oncologist and a special interest in supportive care in cancer, Professor Keefe brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion about cancer control and treatment.
Delighted to Participate in the CCIHO Congress
Reflecting on her participation at the CCIHO Congress, Professor Keefe expresses her delight and notes the importance of such international gatherings. Her longstanding involvement with the Chinese Association for Cancer through MASC highlights the cross-cultural and multinational efforts in cancer care and research. She emphasizes the significance of China’s role in cancer research due to its large population and burden of cancer.
Cancer Prevalence and Treatment in Australia
Professor Keefe outlines Australia’s current situation regarding cancer prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment. With about 165,000 cases of cancer per year in a population of 26 million, she highlights the high incidence rate and the challenges it presents. Despite this, Australia’s robust health system, which includes universal coverage and comprehensive screening programs, has been instrumental in early detection and treatment.
Australian Success Stories and International Sharing
Cervical cancer control in Australia stands out as a success story, with the country on track to eliminate the disease. This achievement is credited to strong vaccination and screening programs, and effective treatment access. Professor Keefe also highlights lung cancer screening and universal health coverage as areas where Australia can share valuable lessons with the global community.
In conclusion, Professor Keefe’s insights provide a valuable perspective on the advancements in cancer control and treatment in Australia. Her experience underscores the importance of international collaboration, effective healthcare policies, and the need for continuous innovation in the battle against cancer.
