The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is calling on the Community to come forward for potentially life-saving cancer screening and health checkups as part of the ‘Don’t Miss a Moment’ campaign launch.
Cancer has a devastating impact on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in Victoria.
According to the Victorian Cancer Registry, Cancer Statistics and Trends Report 2020 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria are 71% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer than non-Aboriginal people.
Cancer Council Victoria data also indicates that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria are nearly 2.5 times more likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal people.
The reduction in the number of people coming forward for cancer screening adds further cause for concern for VACCHO and has led to the development of the Community focused ‘Don’t Miss a Moment’ initiative.
The ‘Don’t Miss a Moment’ campaign is narrated by proud Wongutha-Yamatji man, staunch advocate, and award-winning performer, writer, and director Meyne Wyatt.
“Sadly, cancer continues to prevent many members of the Community from being part of the moments that really matter like graduations, birthdays, coaching or watching the footy, and spending time with grandchildren”
“Throughout the pandemic many people were understandably reluctant to leave their homes to see a doctor. Unfortunately, this has led to a number of people missing out on potentially life-saving cancer screening and health checkups.”
“It is absolutely crucial for the community to come forward for cancer screening , as the early detection of cancer can be lifesaving.”
“I encourage the Community to get in touch with their local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) and have a yarn with an Aboriginal Health Worker or GP/nurse about booking their checkup.”
“We want Community to be there for the moments that matter – and reducing the impact of cancer is vital to creating healthy and vibrant Communities.”
“This is such an important campaign – it’s another strong example of Community-led initiatives being key to improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.”
