Australia is a world leader in the prevention and early detection of cancer. Survival rates for breast cancer at 5 years are 92%¹, bowel cancer 99%² and almost all cervical cancer can be prevented through regular screening. Improving participation in cancer screening programs is vital to ensure better health outcomes for all Australians. Unfortunately, cancer screening rates in the LGBTIQA+ community are lower than the general population. Fear of discrimination and a belief that the services are irrelevant to them often result in cancers being diagnosed at a later stage.
WA cancer screening programs for breast, bowel and cervical have joined forces to develop campaign resources to raise awareness in the LGBTIQA+ community that ‘Screening Saves Lives’. Members of the WA LGBTIQA+ community embraced the concept and volunteered to be the ‘heroes’ of the campaign, lending their images and personal quotes to reflect diversity and inclusion.
The campaign resources highlight eligibility criteria and key messages for each screening program, and include posters, flyers and social media content. The free resources can be ordered and downloaded by key stakeholders and allies to be used in waiting areas, at significant events and dates in the LGBTIQA+ community calendar.
Use these resources to support conversations about the importance of regular cancer screening with your LGBTIQA+ patients.