As more Australians survive cancer, new research is turning its focus to what happens next and better supporting survivors who are at risk of long-term health problems as a result of their cancer journey.
In the emerging field of cancer survivorship, many people who have had cancer now live with one or more chronic health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis or mental health challenges.
These conditions significantly impact quality of life and increase the need for ongoing care.
A new research project being funded by The Hospital Research Foundation Group through the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN) aims to gain greater insight into this area to help support cancer patients.
It will focus on ‘allostatic load’ – the cumulative wear and tear on the body and brain caused by long-term stress caused by cancer.
Project lead Professor Bogda Koczwara AM said the study addresses a critical gap in cancer survivorship research.
“Cancer doesn’t end when treatment finishes. For many people, the physical and psychological stress continues for years and can quietly contribute to serious long-term health problems,” Prof Koczwara said.
“By understanding how chronic stress affects the body at a biological level, we can identify cancer survivors who are most at risk and intervene earlier, before multiple chronic conditions take hold.”
The project aims to identify which biological markers are most informative and could be used clinically to flag people at highest risk, paving the way for targeted prevention strategies.
“This research has the potential to change how we monitor and support cancer survivors,” Prof Koczwara said.
“If we can better identify those under the greatest physiological strain, we can design more personalised, preventive care that improves long-term health and wellbeing.”
The findings are expected to inform future interventions, guide clinical practice, and support healthier futures for the growing population of cancer survivors.
