Research focuses on spirituality in cancer treatment

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed male cancer in Australia, and one in five Queensland men are diagnosed with the disease before the age of 85. However one USQ researcher is looking at the role spirituality plays in coping with the disease.

USQ Honorary Associate Professor Laurie Lepherd, is currently undertaking a study which will look at how rural men cope with the advanced stages of this cancer.

Laurie said his research focused on how men use their own spirituality to assist them through their journey.

'Spirituality can be regarded as something that lifts people above the day to day coping with their illness,' Laurie said.

'It can be based on religion, but may be based on a variety of other things including the connection men may have with the land and with their families.'

Laurie would like to hear from any men who have this condition and who would like to share their journey and their ‘spirituality’ with others.

In particular he would like to hear from men in rural and remote areas of South West Queensland.

'Many men who have already participated in the study have been very enthusiastic about the idea of helping others.'

Laurie can be contacted by phoning 4631 5459, or 0418192517 (please leave a message on voicemail), or by email lepherd@usq.edu.au .