National Gynaecological Cancer Roundtable brings sector together around shared priorities
Convened by the Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) in Canberra on 14 September, the Roundtable focused on opportunities for collective action across prevention, early diagnosis and living with cancer. Discussions were guided by three principles Equity, Evidence and Enablers with participants considering where research and evidence gaps remain, how evidence can be translated more effectively into clinical practice, and the policy and system changes required to accelerate progress.
Cancer nursing expertise was represented at the Roundtable, with Bron Jennings, Chair of CNSA’s Gynaecological Oncology Specialist Practice Network (GYN SPN), attending on behalf of CNSA. Anne Mellon, CNSA Immediate Past President, was also in attendance in her professional capacity. Their participation reflects the important role cancer nurses play across the gynaecological cancer pathway - from prevention and early recognition through treatment, symptom management, supportive care, survivorship and end-of-life care.
The need for coordinated action is significant. ANZGOG reports that 19 women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer in Australia each day and six die from these cancers, with diagnoses projected to increase by 21 per cent over the next decade. More than half of gynaecological cancers are rare or less common cancers, and important disparities remain for women living in regional areas, First Nations women and women experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage.
A central feature of the Roundtable was ensuring that the voices of women with lived experience sat alongside clinical and research evidence. The aim is now to build consensus around priority actions and establish a shared direction for research, investment, policy and system reform, moving beyond discussion towards coordinated action that improves outcomes and experiences for women and their families.
For CNSA, continued nursing representation in these national conversations is critical. Cancer nurses see firsthand where patients experience gaps in access, coordination, education, supportive care and continuity, and bring an essential clinical perspective to the development of solutions that are both evidence-based and workable in practice.
