June Edition 2024

 Upcoming Lymphoma Australia events

💚 Relapsed/Refractory Online Group Chat -- 31st July
💚 Under 40s Online Group Chat -- 16th August
💚 CLL/SLL Online Group Chat -- 2nd September
💚 Canberra In-person Group Chat -- 18th September
💚 Adelaide In-person Group Chat -- 20th September

For more information about these events, have a look at our events calendar. If you are having trouble registering for an event, please contact our nursing team 1800953081.

Hair Loss/Alopecia

A common misconception when people think about cancer is baldness. Many people are surprised to learn that hair loss will not necessarily occur, or that it comes in different grades.

Hair loss is certainly one of the most common side effects, some would argue the most distressing. It makes the disease visible to others, as well as disturbing one’s body image.

Why do some people loose their hair?
Chemotherapy treatment targets rapidly dividing cells, including the hair matrix cells , causing damage to the hair root bulb which results in total or partial hair loss.

Hair loss is commonly described as completely reversible once the treatment stops. In rare cases, chemotherapy can damage the hair
follicular stem cells and the reversibility can be compromised. The stem cells in question, located in the bulb, are responsible for reinitiating follicle growth. If damaged, the hair loss can then become permanent.

Less toxic chemotherapy will result in less severe hair loss but delayed hair growth, where chemotherapy agents associated with greater toxicity will offer faster hair growth preceded by more severe hair loss.

Did you know?
6 out of 10 people will notice different hair characteristics compared to their pre-treatment hair. Chemotherapy can affect the inner root sheath epithelia as well as the follicle melanocytes. In other words, your post-treatment hair might be curly or wavy and the colour can change.

How to manage hair loss?
People can find it helpful to manage their hair loss as it can give you a sense of control. You can:
- plan – cut your hair shorter to allow you time to adjust to your changing image. By cutting your hair short, you also don't have to watch as so much of your hair falls out.
- shaving your head is optional and a personal choice - you can do it at your local hairdresser or at home with the help of your family. It is also a great way to get kids involved and normalise your new look so it isn't so scary for little ones. 
- purchase a wig or hair accessories that match your current hairstyle 

Hair loss might not impact your life’s expectancy, but it can impact your quality of life, and for some people the ability to cope with the treatment. The distress associated with hair loss is related to a change in body image and identity. These feelings are valid, and we encourage you to reach out for help if needed. Lymphoma nurses can provide patients with information on support available and will make referrals to allied health specialists (if required). 

Our nurses are available on our nurse support line 1800953081 or nurse@lymphoma.org.au

Lymphoma/CLL Patient Education Seminar

Do you live in Melbourne and surrounds?

Spaces are filling up fast or our FREE in-person Lymphoma/CLL Patient Education Seminar on Saturday 27th July located at the Grand Hyatt in Melbourne

Make sure to register for this event today to avoid missing out.

Date & Time: Saturday 27th of July 10am - 2:35pm

Location: Grand Hyatt Hotel, 123 Collins Street Melbourne 3000

If you have already registered, you should have received an email with further information and a dietary survey. If you haven’t, please check your junk/spam folder. If you can no longer attend, please let our nurses know on 1800 953 081 or email nurse@lymphoma.org.au

 Dermal Therapy Very Dry Skin Lotion

What is PPE?

Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia (PPE) also known as Hand-Foot Syndrome, is a side effect of some chemotherapy treatments which can cause cracked, flaking or peeling skin, as well as swelling, redness and sores that can make walking or using your hands painful.  

What treatment options are available?

Some research has indicated that creams containing ingredients such as urea, aloe vera, allantoin and colloidal oatmeal may be helpful in managing PPE. Emphasis is given in the hygiene of exposed and affected areas through regular cleansing with mild soaps and hydrating the skin with moisturisers and emollients.

Experience The Dermal Therapy Difference 

Studies have found application of a 10% urea cream three times per day, plus handwashing helps prevent and reduce the incidence of any grade of PPE. Dermal Therapy Very Dry Skin Lotion and Cream contain 10% and 12.5% urea respectively and are clinically tested to intensively hydrate very dry skin. 

 We Couldn't do it without you!

We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the generous support of our sponsors who have made our Treatment Support Kit for Lymphoma Australia possible. Their contributions of products, have made a significant impact on our ability to provide supportive products to those battling lymphoma.

Through your kindness and generosity, we can offer essential resources and support to individuals and families navigating this challenging journey. Your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others is truly inspiring.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us and for your invaluable partnership. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the fight against lymphoma.