How a Canberra trial is transforming cancer care

Posted on 17 August, 2026

For those undergoing chemotherapy, staying active – or even the idea of it – can feel impossible. Yet, tiny, incremental movements can make a world of difference when it comes to managing side effects, speeding up recovery, and brightening overall quality of life.

That’s precisely the inspiration driving Measure It!, a groundbreaking Canberra-led clinical trial co-headed by Professor Nicole Freene and Dr Rebecca Cesnik. It’s investigating whether brief, frequent gentle pushes from healthcare providers can help people undergoing chemotherapy become more active, ease treatment symptoms, and improve their long-term health outcomes.

Currently, one of the biggest barriers to physical activity in cancer care is lack of time and knowledge. Designed specifically with busy clinical schedules in mind, the Measure It! approach allows health professionals to weave physical activity guidance into their standard patient check-ins in less than five minutes.

“We’ve found that the more frequently a health professional measures physical activity with a patient, the more likely they are to increase their moderate to vigorous physical activity levels,” explains Professor Freene.

Research has found that within the ACT, only 12 per cent of chemotherapy patients are meeting the recommended physical activity levels, though many express a keen desire for guidance on how to move more. The study has also found that it can be as small and simple as walking around your kitchen.

“Particularly during cancer treatment, physical activity improves survival rates, reduces reoccurrence and can improve treatment adherence. But on top of those longer-term outcomes, it can really improve someone’s quality of life,” notes project co-lead, Dr Rebecca Cesnik.

Professor Freene is one of two 2026 Cancer Council ACT research grant recipients, with her project receiving $100,000 to support local cancer research in Canberra. The work is made possible by Cancer Council ACT supporters, including people who donate or fundraise for campaigns such as Daffodil Day.

“We had trialled Measure It! in other populations and it seemed like something that could work for cancer patients. The Cancer Council ACT grant gave us the opportunity to pilot the project in a different population where it can make an individual difference.”

“Without this grant we would struggle to put this research into practice for clinicians – ensuring outcomes for both the health professionals and cancer patients,” adds Dr Cesnik

This year marks 40 years of Daffodil Day, serving as a poignant reminder of how important local support is. This milestone recognises the progress made in cancer treatment and the continued need to invest vital life-changing research.

When Daffodil Day began in 1986, the five-year cancer survival rate was approximately 46 per cent. Today, it has risen to 72 per cent.

Cancer Council ACT CEO Verity Hawkins says that Measure It! is a clear example of how the generosity of the local community directly impacts Canberrans affected by cancer.

She also notes that it can start as small as buying a bunch of daffodils this Daffodil Day.

“Every bunch of daffodils sold, every cold dip and every dollar donated helps Cancer Council ACT invest in local Canberra cancer research, improving outcomes for people affected by cancer right here in the ACT.”

This August, Cancer Council ACT is inviting the community to wear yellow, buy a bunch of daffodils, host a fundraiser or donate to celebrate 40 years of Daffodil Day and help fund the next generation of life-changing cancer research.

Canberrans can also join the Daffodil Day Dip and brave the cold at Lake Burley Griffin alongside the ACT Brumbies on 19 August.

Find out more at daffodilday.com.au. A little kindness can blossom into life-changing research for people affected by cancer, including right here in Canberra.