A 46-year-old male presented with 2 months of progressive painful visual loss. Examination revealed bilateral panuveitis, widespread ulcerative cutaneous lesions and alopecia. He had a positive treponemal antibody test and a rapid plasma reagin of 1:2048. Findings were consistent with severe secondary syphilis in an otherwise immunocompetent patient.
ABSTRACT The Australian Cancer Plan is a 10‐year national framework to improve cancer outcomes for all Australians. Its third Strategic Objective envisions integrated, coordinated, data‐driven high‐quality health systems that deliver optimal cancer care and outcomes, with survivorship and palliative care as priority areas for action. In this perspective article, we examine the challenges and opportunities to achieving this objective. We identify persistent gaps in survivorship and palliative care and in equity for priority populations. To achieve the stated objective, we present opportunities to expand team‐based models of follow‐up care, strengthening of comprehensive cancer networks and embedding patient‐reported outcome and experience measures nationally.
A 46-year-old male presented with 2 months of progressive painful visual loss. Examination revealed bilateral panuveitis, widespread ulcerative cutaneous lesions and alopecia. He had a positive treponemal antibody test and a rapid plasma reagin of 1:2048. Findings were consistent with severe secondary syphilis in an otherwise immunocompetent patient.
ABSTRACT Australia has recognised strengths in MedTech, yet pivotal trials and first approvals (including for Australian‐origin devices) often occur offshore. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is well‐positioned to further support local innovation while maintaining confidence in the medical devices approved for use by shifting effort earlier in development. We outline the current landscape of risk‐based regulation across the medical device lifecycle and frame the issues for clinicians during an upcoming period of active discussion and consultation. The existing priority review pathway could be refined for devices under development. Targeted early access approaches must recognise unmet needs and carefully weigh uncertainties around safety and performance. Internationally, regulators increasingly act as collaborators as well as adjudicators of innovation, helped by targeted programs. The TGA aims for an optimised regulatory system that responsibly facilitates access by Australians to MedTech innovation, while aligning timelines with clinical need and sustaining public trust.
ABSTRACT Cancer accounts for three in 10 deaths in Australia, yet many cases are preventable or can be detected at an early stage. Maximising cancer prevention and early detection is one of the six strategic objectives of the 10‐year Australian Cancer Plan. This perspective article reviews the current progress and challenges of reducing the cancer burden, along with future opportunities. It explores how to address modifiable risk factors, particularly tobacco smoking, alcohol use and sun exposure and the advances in screening programs for bowel, breast, cervical and lung cancers. It highlights the potential for risk‐stratified and genomics‐informed screening, emphasising the need to support participation through equitable and culturally safe approaches.
