Cancer Council WA is encouraging West Aussies to sign up to Dry July 2024 and quit alcohol for the month, in a bid to raise much-needed funds for the 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Line; a free service for all Australians affected by cancer.
Cancer Council WA’s CEO, Ashley Reid, said committing to the Dry July fundraiser was a great way to raise funds for an important cause.
“Our 13 11 20 Information and Support Line is a confidential service run by experienced cancer nurses and is available to those affected by or concerned about cancer. This service is not government funded – it is funded through the generosity of donors and fundraisers,” Mr Reid said.
The service connects West Australians with relevant support, information and resources to help them through their cancer journey. Last year, the service provided support to almost 5800 West Australians.
Mr Reid said that participating in Dry July also yielded a range of health benefits.
“Going dry for July is a great opportunity to look at how you can reduce your overall alcohol use,” he said.
“Alcohol is a cause of cancer; research shows that every year more than 3,500 cases of cancer can be attributed to alcohol use, such as mouth, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, liver, bowel and breast cancer in women.
“There is no safe level of alcohol use, as any level increases the risk of developing an alcohol-caused cancer. The more you drink, and the more often you drink, the greater your risk.
“To reduce your cancer risk, reduce your drinking.”
For more information
- Sign up to Dry July
- Cancer Council’s support services call 13 11 20.