With the arrival of National Reconciliation Week, Australians are encouraged to share histories, cultures and achievements and to explore the outlets for an equitable and reconciled country for all.
Anita Dessaix, Director of Cancer Prevention and Advocacy at Cancer Council NSW said the Council is committed to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"This year's theme is 'Be a Voice for Generations' and our voice is to support and improve the health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across NSW," Ms Dessaix said.
"By creating culturally safe and responsive programs and services."
In order to reduce the inequalities in cancer outcomes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the Cancer Council is committed to improved cancer screening participation rates.
Ms Dessaix explained low screening rates are likely to be a reason bowel cancer survival is lower for Indigenous Australians than for non-Indigenous Australians,
"Screening rates are lower in First Nations communities due to multiple barriers to access," she said.
"There has, however, been some progress, with a pathway co-designed and co-delivered with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups.
"We need to do more of what works, to reduce disparities in bowel cancer survival."
The estimated participation rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 50-74 in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program was only 27.3% in 2017-18.
This is compared to the 42.6% of non-Indigenous Australians who got regular screenings.
Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of cancer death in NSW, and one of the most common cancers impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
"We know that early detection of bowel cancer through participation in the screening program saves lives and when caught early, 9 in 10 bowel cancers can be treated successfully," Ms Dessaix said.
"Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face unique challenges and barriers to cancer screening.
"We're here to support everyone to reduce their cancer risk and get the information and support they need.
"If you've got a bowel cancer screening kit sitting in the drawer, don't delay. Take the test because it could save your life."
Cancer Council NSW is excited to announce the launch of their new Aboriginal Portal, the home of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tailored information about cancer.
The Portal's purpose is to encourage healthy habits and support, whilst sharing stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who have been affected by cancer.
Questions or concerns about cancer can be directed to the Cancer Council's free information and support number (13 11 20), with information also available on the Cancer Council website.
