Edith Cowan University has appointed Benjamin Tan as the first professor of cancer nursing at the School of Nursing and Midwifery in Joondalup, making him the only professor of cancer nursing in WA.
Dr Tan is internationally recognised for his research in integrative oncology and cancer symptom management.
His appointment aims to strengthen cancer nursing research at ECU.
He said students can expect a strong emphasis on connecting research with clinical practice and the experiences of people affected by cancer.
“Working closely with the School of Nursing and Midwifery’s research and education leaders, I hope to help bring evidence in symptom management, supportive care and survivorship into undergraduate learning and teaching, while supporting opportunities in honours and postgraduate research,” Dr Tan said.
“I also look forward to supervising research students as they explore questions relevant to patients and clinicians.”
According to Cancer Council WA, cancer diagnoses are on the rise in WA due to population growth and more early screenings.
Dr Tan said cancer nurses were more important than ever amid the rise in cancer diagnoses.
“Cancer nurses provide continuity, manage symptoms, help people understand treatment and support informed decisions within multidisciplinary teams,” he said.
“Their contribution extends from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship and end-of-life care.”
Dr Tan hopes to build a collaborative cancer supportive care research program based at Joondalup and connected to health services across WA and beyond.
“I want to work with a dedicated team, people with cancer and their families, and academic and health partners across WA and beyond to build a sustainable cancer supportive care research program,” he said.
“Our priorities would include better symptom management, co-ordinated support after treatment and improved quality of life. I hope the evidence we generate will inform clinical practice, education and future guidelines.”