Presenter: Wayne Bucklar
Guest: Dr. Anna Boltong
Guest Bio: Dr. Anna Boltong is the Head of Cancer Information and Support Services at Cancer Council Victoria. In this role she heads up a portfolio of more than twenty practical and emotional support programs and services for people affected by cancer. The gateway to these programs is through the 13 11 20 cancer information and support line, which is staffed by specialist oncology nurses. Her unit also has a key role in helping health professionals to support their oncology patients through dissemination of evidence based information and education programs. Dr Boltong originally trained as a dietitian and has qualifications in health promotion, nutrition, gastronomy, education and research. Her PhD researched improved mechanisms for supporting both clinicians and patients to better manage cancer treatment-induced taste problems. Her professional experience spans public health policy, health service improvement, clinical oncology and supportive care in cancer research.
Segment Overview: Get to know more about Cancer Council Victoria’s mission and goals as Dr. Anna Boltong discusses them here in this segment which include prevention, support and research. Since its establishment in 1937, Cancer Council Victoria has developed an international reputation for our innovative work in cancer research, prevention and support. As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, they play a leading role in reducing the impact of all cancers on all people. Their prevention programs strive to reduce the incidence of cancers attributable to tobacco, UV radiation, alcohol, obesity and infection, particularly in high-risk populations. Their support programs strive to reduce the impact of cancer by providing reliable information and compassionate support to people living with cancer, their family and friends. Their research programs underpin all of our work in cancer prevention and support and generate the knowledge required to continue to drive improvements in cancer survival.