Cancer: What You Need To Know
Cancer is not a single disease – it’s a collection of disorders where abnormal cells grow in an uncontrolled way. Depending on the type and stage, cancer can affect different organs and systems. Early-stage cancer often doesn’t show obvious symptoms, which is why awareness, prevention, and early detection are so important.
Modern cancer treatments – such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or immunotherapy – can place physical and emotional strain on the body. At Body@Boronia we recognise that massage and supportive therapies do not treat cancer itself. Instead, when carefully adapted and administered, they serve as complementary therapies that help improve comfort, ease symptoms, and support overall wellbeing during and after conventional treatment.
Cancer: Underlying Causes
Cancer can arise for a variety of reasons. Factors that may increase risk include:
- Genetic predisposition – some cancers run in families.
- Lifestyle factors – such as smoking, poor diet, excessive alcohol, prolonged exposure to UV radiation or environmental carcinogens.
- Age and immune function – cancer risk generally increases with age, especially if immune surveillance weakens.
- Exposure to carcinogens – e.g. radiation, certain chemicals or prolonged inflammation.
- Combined risk factors – often multiple contributing factors act together over time.
Because cancer is complex, even people without clear risk factors can be affected. That’s why regular check-ups, healthy habits and early detection matter for everyone.
Early Detection
Detecting cancer early can significantly improve outcomes. While screening recommendations depend on cancer type, general guidelines include:
- Follow age- and risk-based screening protocols – for example, mammograms for breast cancer, colon screenings, cervical checks, or lung screenings if appropriate.
- Stay alert to changes in your body – unusual lumps, persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, changes in skin, or prolonged pain warrant professional review.
- Discuss family history and risk factors with your healthcare provider – this helps determine whether you need earlier or more frequent screenings.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle – balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol can reduce risk over time.
Early detection is not always a guarantee, because many cancers have no early symptoms. But being proactive – by staying informed, attending screening, and seeking medical advice for changes – gives you the best chance for prompt treatment.
Certified Oncology Massage Options at Body@Boronia
At Body@Boronia, we offer specialised oncology-aware massage options tailored to the unique needs of people with a cancer diagnosis or undergoing cancer treatment. Our certified oncology massage therapists have specialist training via Oncology Massage Limited. OML trains massage therapists for the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre and created techniques based on research results.
Here’s what you can expect from our services:
What oncology massage can help with
Evidence shows that gentle, comfort-oriented massage can significantly ease various symptoms experienced during or after cancer treatment, including:
- Pain and muscular tension
- Fatigue and nausea
- Stress, anxiety, depression and emotional distress
- Trouble sleeping, poor mood or general feelings of unease – helping improve quality of life and sense of wellbeing.
Safety & what we customise
Because cancer and its treatments affect each person differently, our therapists follow strict protocols:
- We avoid applying deep or aggressive pressure, particularly on or near tumour, surgical or radiation sites.
- We customise the type and intensity of massage according to your medical history, treatment stage, and current condition (e.g. fatigue, skin sensitivity, blood conditions, lymph node removal).
- If needed, we can apply gentle lymphatic-aware massage, scar-friendly techniques, or soft touch massage, always in consultation with your oncologist or healthcare provider.
What to expect during a session at Body@Boronia
- A comfortable, calm environment focused on relaxation and healing
- A thorough intake conversation about your diagnosis, treatment history and any ongoing symptoms
- Adapted massage techniques to prioritise safety and comfort
- Focus on improving comfort, easing side-effects, supporting emotional wellbeing and improving quality of life
Final Note
Massage at Body@Boronia is never a substitute for medical cancer treatment. Instead, when used alongside conventional care, it can be a valuable part of a holistic support plan – aimed at comfort, stress relief and improved quality of life.
If you or a loved one are navigating a cancer diagnosis or treatment and are interested in oncology massage, we welcome you to reach out. We’ll work with you to design a gentle, personalized plan that honours your health, safety and comfort.
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