Bowel Cancer Screening and First Nations Australians
Bowel cancer is the third-most common cancer affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Participation in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is lower than for non-Indigenous Australians. Working in collaboration with our industry partner, Aboriginal Home Health, Indigenous Services, a division of Australian Unity, this NHMRC funded (GNT2015290) project aims to increase participation among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients by co-designing and implementing a bowel cancer screening program that is informed by their preferences and values.
A booklet and facilitators guide have been developed. The book is available from the link below..
Bowel Screening Booklet - Download here:
The multi-disciplinary research team involves researchers from:
The University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Menzies School of Health Research, University of Wollongong, The University of Adelaide, University of New South Wales, and Flinders University.
ARTWORK
The Bowel Cancer Screening artwork was created by Craig Carson of Wakka Wakka, Cobble Cobble nation.
This artwork represents the journey of food and waste through our digestive system and into the bowel. This artwork story connects food, waste, and the digestive process to a broader view of living in balance with the land. It reflects the Aboriginal philosophy of interconnectedness with nature, showing respect for the cycle of life and the importance of sustainability. The artwork also shows the gathering of community and family to support each other during each stage of life.