Free bowel cancer test a must, says TO

WUTHATHI Traditional Owner John Paul Janke has encouraged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over to stay healthy by taking a free bowel cancer screening test.

Nationally, only around one in three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are completing their bowel cancer screening tests as part of the national program.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers impacting Indigenous Austral- ians, but if detected early, almost all cases of bowel cancer are treatable.

“Bowel screening is something that is simple, free and easy to do,” said John Paul, who is also a proud Meriam man.

“We need to encourage our brothers and sisters to participate, there’s absolutely no shame in looking after your health and wellbeing.”

He is passionate about increasing participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples in the Australian Government’s free National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

“As a dad, I want to be around for my family for years to come, to see my boys grow up and become young men. The test is simple, free and easy, and the outcome is huge – it can save your life,” he said.

To find out more about the benefits of bowel cancer screening visit www.indigenousbowelscreen.com.au