Thoracic cancer support
In Western Australia approximately 930 people are diagnosed with thoracic cancer each year and 90 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Thoracic cancer includes:
- cancer of the lung
- pleura (lining of the lungs)
- bronchus
- trachea
- thymus.
It also includes mesothelioma, a malignant tumour of the pleura.
Diagnosis
In order for the treating team to discover the stage (extent) of the cancer you may have to have a number of tests and procedures.
These include:
Treatment
Depending on the stage of the cancer, there are a number of treatment options that may be discussed with the patient and family.
These include:
- surgery
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy
- thermal ablation
- a combination of the above.
Helping you along your cancer journey
The Thoracic Cancer Nurse Coordination Service is a free statewide service available to anyone with a diagnosis of thoracic cancer. The aim of the service is to provide support, information and advice and act as a point of contact at this often difficult time.
Specialist thoracic cancer nurses are available to:
- provide information and explain about your diagnosis and treatment
- refer, liaise and link with other services and health professionals as appropriate
- be a point of contact throughout the diagnostic and treatment phase
- coordinate and streamline appointments.
This service is available Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Specialist thoracic nurses can be contacted on the following mobile numbers:
- Royal Perth Hospital and Fremantle Hospital patients
Mobile: 0400 023296
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
Mobile: 0438 910582
More information
- Cancer Council WA Helpline
Phone: 13 11 20
Provides counselling, complementary therapies, support groups and financial assistance.
- WA Psycho-Oncology Service
Phone: 9382 7480
A clinical psychology service that offers free confidential counselling to patients and families living with cancer.
- Solaris care
Phone: 9346 7603
Provides counselling and complementary therapies for cancer patients and their families.
- Australian Lung Foundation (external site)
Phone: 1800 654 301 (free from land line only)
An Australian organisation that promotes the understanding, management and relief of lung disease (including lung cancer).
- Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia Inc.
Phone: 1800 646 690 (free from land line only) or 9344 4077 (metropolitan callers)
Provides awareness, information and support for people with asbestos related disease (including mesothelioma).
Acknowledgements
WA Cancer and Palliative Care Network
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.