A Free, Nurse-Led Support Line for Primary Liver Cancer
October is Liver Cancer Awareness Month, a time to spotlight a rising health concern and the resources available to those affected. The Liver Foundation has announced a new, free support line led by experienced nurses who specialize in primary liver cancer and the broader spectrum of liver disease. This service is designed to offer patients and their families access to trusted guidance, a listening ear, and practical information when they need it most.
The line represents a response to a gap in care. Many people with liver cancer are treated outside traditional cancer centers and may miss some of the additional support offered to others facing cancer. The Liver Foundation emphasizes that the new service aims to bridge that gap, particularly for residents in regional or remote communities, individuals with limited English proficiency, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who may face extra barriers to care.
By leveraging the expertise of nurses who understand primary liver cancer and underlying liver conditions, the service provides a safe space to voice fears, ask urgent questions, and receive compassionate, non-judgmental guidance. The nurses can help with a range of needs—from clarifying diagnoses and treatment options to navigating side effects, coordinating care, and identifying reliable resources for further information.
How the Service Works
Access to the support line is free and straightforward. Patients, carers, or loved ones can call 1800 841 118 between 8 am and 6 pm Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST). The line is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable nurses who can speak with people about primary liver cancer and its common causes, such as hepatocellular carcinoma—now one of the fastest-growing contributors to cancer-related deaths in Australia.
In addition to direct clinical questions, the nurses can arrange interpreter services through TIS National or Auslan, ensuring language and communication barriers don’t stand in the way of caring support. This commitment to accessibility reflects the Foundation’s broader goal: to provide equitable support to all Australians affected by liver cancer, regardless of location or background.
Why This Service Matters
According to recent data, more than 3,000 Australians are diagnosed with primary liver cancer each year, and five-year survival remains low for many patients. For some, the journey through treatment can be isolating, with information scattered across different health systems. A nurse-led line offers a reliable touchpoint—a place to ask questions, verify information, and receive timely guidance that complements the medical care patients receive at hospitals or clinics.
Moreover, the service acknowledges that liver cancer often coexists with other liver diseases, which can complicate treatment decisions. The trained nurses can help patients understand how liver function, comorbidities, and individual circumstances may influence therapy choices, prognosis, and quality of life. By providing clear explanations and practical next steps, the line can help patients feel more empowered in their care decisions.
What Patients and Families Should Know
If you or someone you know is facing primary liver cancer, this new resource is a reachable, trusted option. The nurses are there to listen, answer questions, and guide discussions with medical teams. The service complements ongoing care, rather than replacing direct consultations with clinicians, and it’s available at no cost to users.
The Liver Foundation views this line as a starting point for broader support networks. It can connect people with additional information about treatment options, clinical trials, nutrition and coping strategies, and mental health resources. The aim is to reduce anxiety, improve understanding, and help patients navigate the complexities of liver cancer treatment with confidence.
Real World Impact and Looking Forward
As awareness grows, the Foundation hopes that more Australians will know about this accessible support channel and feel comfortable reaching out during the course of their disease. If successful, the service could inspire similar models in other health areas, expanding the reach of nurse-led, patient-centered care across the country.
For now, the free liver cancer support line stands ready to serve: 1800 841 118, 8 am–6 pm AEST, with interpreter options available. In Liver Cancer Awareness Month and beyond, this initiative is a testament to the essential role nurses play in supporting patients and families through challenging health journeys.
