What is a Cancer?
Cancer is a broad term used to describe a range of diseases that involve abnormal cells forming, causing destruction to the body’s normal healthy tissue. There are many different types of cancer. From Cancer Council, the most common cancers in Australia are:
- Skin
- Prostate
- Breast
- Colorectal (bowel)
- Melanoma
- Lung cancer
These five cancers account for about 60% of all cancers diagnosed in Australia.
The long-term effects of Cancer affect each person differently and can be suffered over a long period of time, with life-prolonging treatment. It can also be treated quickly if medical attention is sought early in the diagnosis. Therefore, claiming TPD for cancer will depend on your unique situation and how far along your diagnosis you are.
How Common is Cancer in Australia?
The Australian Cancer Research Foundation states that 2 in 5 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. There were also 16,000 new cases of cancer in Australia in 2022, which is an average of 444 cases a day.
What symptoms do Australians with Cancer live with?
Due to the range of long-term There are multiple symptoms that can be linked to Cancer depending on the type and grade, as well as short term symptoms whilst you are going through treatments such as chemotherapy. Some cancer symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weight changes
- Skin changes if you are suffering from skin cancer
- Joint or muscle pain
- Fevers and sweats
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Cancer can affect people differently. This is only a small range of symptoms that people battling cancer may face. More information on symptoms can be read on the Australian Government website.
What help is available for Australians living with Cancer?
From HealthyWA, your treatment will depend on the type of cancer you have, where it began and whether it has spread to other parts of your body. It will also depend on such things as your general health and the type of treatment you choose.
Most cancers are treated by surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy (drug treatment). Often more than one of these treatments is used. Other treatments that can work with some cancers are immunotherapy and hormone therapy.
Help is also available for the mental health impacts of your condition. You should chat with your local GP to find the best mental health care for when you may be undergoing cancer treatment.
Though treatments are available, the financial costs of living with an illness can be tough to deal with when you’re focussed on attending medical appointments and getting better. Super Claims Assist can help explain TPD insurance and if you may be eligible for this through your super fund. We can help you – no win, no fee.
Find out more about Cancer in Australia
Types of Cancer Claims in Australia
Learn about the different types of cancer claims
TPD Claims for Cancer in Australia
Learn about how TPD Claims can provide lump sum financial help to Australians with cancer