News and Blog

New technologies keeping people sun safe

Dr Elke Hacker was featured in a segment on the children’s science show Scope on channel 11. On Scope scientists and researchers present stories about their research and latest discoveries.

Elke talked about the latest technology and innovation helping to keep people sun safe. Devices range from wearables, to apps and UVR detecting stickers. Elke is currently conducting several studies testing these new devices. Read more >

Participate in a pilot study on Sunscreen and Young Children (SAY)

We are conducting a pilot study looking at beliefs and attitudes relating to the use of sunscreen and other sun protective behaviours in young children.

We’re looking for participants that are the parents or guardians of young children between the ages of 2 and 6 years of age to complete an online survey. Please download the attached Participant Flyer for further details. Read more >

Less invasive treatments for endometrial cancer patients

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer in Australia. Endometrial cancer develops in the lining of the uterus and rates of this cancer are increasing, particularly in women under 40 years of age who are overweight or obese.

Endometrial cancer caught early is very curable. The current standard treatment is surgery (a total hysterectomy), however this results in young women losing their fertility. The feMMe trial aims to treat endometrial cancer less invasively through using a Mirena and metformin. A Mirena is an intra-uterine device commonly used as a contraceptive (the IUD) and metformin is an anti-diabetes drug which has been found to be a potentially powerful anti-cancer drug. In addition, the study will also assess the effect of a weight loss program on early stage endometrial cancer patients. QUT’s Improving Health Outcomes for People Professor Monika Janda is leading the lifestyle component of the feMMe trial. Read more >

Lymphedema following gynaecological cancer

Cancer-related lymphedema is a debilitating condition that adversely influences quality of life. Lymphoedema is a potential problematic complication following treatment for cancer and is the accumulation of excessive amounts of fluid resulting in swelling, most commonly in the arms or legs, but can also occur in other parts of the body.

Findings from the LEGS study (Lymphedema Evaluation in Gynaecological Cancer tudy) indicate Lymphedema after gynecological cancer is a common survivorship concern. A clinic-based sample of women (n=408) with gynecological cancer and lymphedema in one or both legs participated in the study. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of lower-limb lymphedema. Improving Health Outcomes for People researcher Prof Sandi Hayes is the lead author of the study published in Gynecologic Oncology. Fifty per cent of women show evidence of lymphedema within 2 years post-gynaecological cancer. Read more >