Reports to the Victorian Cancer Registry decreased by 31 per cent in the first period of restrictions in Victoria compared to the pre-COVID-19 period, according to the new data.
These new numbers underline emerging concerns from healthcare professionals cancers are not being diagnosed because people are nervous to visit doctors during the pandemic.
This could mean vital checkups, cancer screenings and important follow-up investigations are being postponed, increasing risks for patients.
It's a concerning trend Shepparton Medical Clinic director Robert Campbell has noticed in town.
“In February, presentations fell off a cliff, as people thought there was a greater risk of contracting the virus at clinics,” he said.
“We have seen oncology centres diagnosing fewer people with tumours. This is concerning, as cancer doesn't just go away because of COVID-19.
“We have one doctor here running a skin clinic, and he's still doing all his skin checks throughout the pandemic.
“But even he's noticed a reduction in people presenting.
“So even though people may have suspicions of melanomas, they're not coming forward to have them checked.”
The first sign of a melanoma can be a new spot or a change in an existing mole.
These changes can include changes in size, colour, elevation, shape or border, or the mole may begin to itch or bleed.
Dr Campbell stressed the earlier a melanoma was diagnosed, the less risk there was of more complicated and progressed cancer – making treatment options simpler.
“The sooner the diagnosis is made, the better the outcome,” he said.
Cancer Council Victoria chief executive Todd Harper said it was also crucial to continue cancer screening for breast, bowel and cervical cancer at this time.
“It’s understandable that some Victorians may be anxious about visiting their doctor,” he said.
“But health services have implemented infection control and health professionals are doing all they can to make sure it is safe to attend appointments, either in person or via telehealth.
“(Don't) delay medical appointments, as ensuring symptoms are checked out might just save your life.”
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