Gunditjmara woman Aunty Jill Gallagher is encouraging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 50 - 74 across Victoria to stay healthy and strong by doing a free bowel cancer screening test.
In conversation with NITV Radio, Aunty Jill highlighted that bowel cancer is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer and one of the most common cancers impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
However, if detected early, almost all bowel cancers are treatable.
“The test is nothing compared to what you could end up having to deal with. You can avoid needing a colostomy bag and you can avoid death if you get it early. And importantly, you can enjoy more time with family,” Aunty Jill says.
Aunty Jill also indicated Mob can access and download free resources on a dedicated website.
All eligible Australian's aged 50 – 74 will receive the free bowel cancer screening test in the mail every two years or through their healthcare professional.
The bowel cancer test is clean and easy to do. Replacement test kits can be ordered through GPs, health clinics and Aboriginal Medical Services, or by calling the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.
