First Nations Telegraph

The National Bower Cancer Screening Program is now making it easier for Australians to get tested for bowel cancer, lowering the age of the free program to include those aged 45 to 49. The change to expand screening will mean an additional 1.6 million people will be eligible for free bowel cancer screening.

 

Bowel cancer is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer and one of the most common cancers impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Completing the free test every two years from the age of 45 can help to detect bowel cancer early. The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, but if found early, 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.

 

Dr Vinka Barunga, a Worrora woman, has joined Dr Joel Wenitong, a Gubbi Gubbi man and long-time bowel cancer screening advocate, as part of a nationwide push to boost awareness and participation by mob in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

 

Dr Vinka says, “doing your screening test every two years can help you stay strong and healthy for yourself, your family and your community”. 

 

People aged 45 to 49, can order a free bowel cancer screening kit and join the program by filling out a webform, calling 1800 627 701, or having a yarn with their health worker.

 

For people aged 50 to 74, a kit will be mailed to their postal address registered with Medicare, every two years. Replacement kits can be reordered online or through a health worker.

 

Nationally, around 1 in 3 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (34.2%) are completing their bowel cancer screening tests as part of the national program. 

 

For more information, have a yarn with your health worker, visit indigenousbowelscreen.com.au or call the Screening Register on 1800 627 701.