We’re dying in regional areas: report

NEARLY one regional Queenslander will die every day because they live outside a major city.

Cancer Council Queensland research revealed about 350 regional people pass away each year because of the city and country health divide.

It is a tragic statistic that has prompted a partnership between the organisation and the University of Southern Queensland.

In an effort to bridge the gap, Cancer Council Queensland and USQ have launched a collaboration working within USQ’s Institute for Resilient Regions.

Next week they will host the first forum of its kind to address the disparity.

The forum and associated activities will include an event in Toowoomba on Tuesday, July 11 from 1.30pm - 5pm, followed by a public lecture from 5pm - 6.30pm at City Golf Club.

The public lecture, presented by visiting international speakers, Heather Bryant and Anil D’Cruz, will highlight how the community can work together to address inequalities in cancer outcomes in regional communities.

Cancer Council Queensland CEO Chris McMillan urged all members of the community to attend.

“Closing the gap in regional survival is core to Cancer Council’s mission and key to cancer control in Queensland,” she said.

“It has long been established that cancer patients living in outer regional areas are more likely to die within five years of a diagnosis than those living in cities.

“Our research estimates 13% of all regional cancer deaths are preventable.”

The forums will bring together international research experts, health professionals and key regional stakeholders.

To RSVP to the events visit usq.com.au. More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available at cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.