Cancer is the third largest cause of death of Indigenous Australians. Evidence indicates this population experience poorer outcomes following a cancer diagnosis, as Indigenous people are often diagnosed later (Cause of Death 2010 and Lung Cancer in Australia report, November 2011).
This project which is led by The Australian Lung Foundation in collaboration with Hume Regional Integrated Cancer Service (RICS) aims to raise awareness and understanding of cancer in the local Albury/Wodonga Indigenous community of approximately 4,000 people (ABS, 2010). This will be achieved by providing education to the Aboriginal Health Workers and the wider community around the disease, treatments and support services.
The local Aboriginal Health Service Chronic Disease Nurse assisted with introductions to key Aboriginal Health Workers and a Steering Group was established to oversee and advise on the project. The Steering Group consists of more than 50% Aboriginal membership from a wide range of local organisations . An Aboriginal Project Officer was appointed to engage with the local community and health workers. Successful education sessions focusing on cancers with poorer outcomes, such as lung cancer have been conducted in the community, with local Aboriginal Health Workers attending site visits at radiation, chemotherapy and palliative care units. These visits provided an understanding of treatment options , referral pathways and the supportive care services available, with further sessions being planned. The development of resources is underway with the release of a DVD featuring a local Aboriginal woman diagnosed with lung cancer and plans are progressing to work with Cancer Council Victoria to provide support group facilitator training and pilot an Aboriginal support group.
Evaluations and feedback to date indicate Aboriginal Health Workers are now more confident in contacting cancer services to seek advice for their clients and the Indigenous community are now accessing cancer services earlier.