About the study
CanCo is a First Nations-led Prospective Cancer Cohort study designed to understand the cancer care needs and experiences of First Nations peoples diagnosed with cancer, and their caregivers. CanCo aims to address the significant gap in the existing quality and comprehensiveness of data about and for First Nations cancer patients by analysing the journey, the critical touchpoints, and the challenges to effective care. The University of Queensland in collaboration with Cancer Alliance Queensland (CAQ) will conduct this mixed-methods study combining data linkage, patient and caregiver reported measures and in-depth Yarns; to explore First Nations cancer patients and their care givers experiences across Queensland. CAQ manages the Queensland Cancer Register and work with key organisations to enhance cancer services across the state. Through collaboration with clinicians, health facilities, and external partners, CAQ drives improvements in cancer care and patient outcomes. We aim to improve cancer equity, outcomes, and support systems for First Nations peoples.
Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Governance
This research will be guided by best practice Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research ethics frameworks and guidelines such as the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research. An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander subcommittee of Cancer Alliance Queensland that reports on cancer incidence, survival, and other indicators relevant to the evaluation, management and monitoring of cancer services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities will provide cultural oversight throughout the study. Members include representation from across the 8 Indigenous Queensland Regions and key Community organisations.
Funding and collaborators
Funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NMHRC) Clinical Trials and Cohort Studies Grants Scheme (GNT 2024234), CanCo is a collaborative partnership with Cancer Alliance Queensland, The University of Queensland, The University of South Australia, The Australian National University, Cancer Council Queensland, Flinders University, University of Sydney, Southern Cross University and University of New South Wales.
To find out more about this project please email: canco-study@uq.edu.au
OUR ARTWORK
The CanCo artwork was created by Craig Carson - Wakka Wakka, Cobble Cobble.
The circular design represents the story of community coming together to yarn and create a pathway to wellbeing and health after cancer.
The story shows that healing is not an individual recovery, its a collective healing, representing the central values of interconnectedness of family, kin, and community. When someone is unwell, the community rallies around them to provide support, care, and love. Elders or community leaders offer guidance, teaching cultural knowledge, life skills, and ways to deal with challenges, to foster a sense of belonging and cultural pride.