Aims:
Improving knowledge, attitudes and understanding of cancer by individuals, families, carers and community members (across the continuum) was identified in the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Framework 2015 and confirmed as a key priority at the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Forum in February 2020.
Cancer Australia has developed a new national website, Our Mob and Cancer, to provide a central hub of evidence-based, culturally appropriate and strength-based information about cancer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their health professionals.
Methods:
An all-Indigenous Expert Reference Group was established with national representation members (n=13) and met on five occasions during the period 2020-2022.
Cancer Australia’s Leadership Group on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Control provided strategic overview and monitored the development of the website.
All contractors engaged to develop, design, build and write content for the dedicated website were certified Indigenous owned and operated businesses from Supply Nation[1], to ensure the website is relevant, culturally appropriate and respectful, engaging, accessible and user-friendly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Results:
Following Indigenous stakeholder recommendations and audience research, a suite of videos featuring cancer survivors, Elders and health professionals covering themes of early detection and screening, diagnosis and treatment, and the culturally sensitive topics of Shame and Sorry Business was produced for the website. All content was clinically and culturally reviewed and focus-tested during development and prior to launch.
A targeted promotional strategy is being implemented to increase reach and awareness with Aboriginal and Torres Strait people with cancer and communities.
Conclusion:
Guided by an Indigenous Expert Reference Group and developed by Indigenous Australians Suppliers, Our Mob and Cancer is a first of its kind, culturally-safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by cancer, community, and their health professionals.