West Moreton Health has linked with 10 Ipswich cafes and a car dealership network to drive awareness about the importance of regular bowel cancer screening.
The cafe and car dealership campaigns will run during June, which is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month. The 10 participating cafes will affix specially designed stickers on coffee cups, featuring the message, “Bowel Screening Saves Lives”. A total of 10,000 stickers have been distributed to the cafes.
The Bundamba dealership will distribute 200 air fresheners featuring the message: “A simple bowel screen could save your life.”
West Moreton Health Cancer Screening Health Promotion Officer Leanne Kelly said the health service was excited to collaborate with local businesses to increase awareness of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
“West Moreton Health is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our community. Partnerships like these play a pivotal role in reaching out to the public and encouraging them to prioritise their health," Ms Kelly said.
“We are grateful for the support of our local cafes and dealerships in spreading awareness about bowel cancer screening. Together, we can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards their health and potentially save lives through early detection and prevention.”
The campaign aims to increase awareness of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, which sends out free bowel cancer screening tests to eligible Australians aged 50-74.
Bowel cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Australia; however, more than 90% of bowel cancers can be treated if detected early.
"Bowel cancer often develops without any symptoms. Regular screening can detect small changes early, leading to better prognosis. The screening kit is more than just another envelope – it is a vital tool for your health. It is quick, easy, and can be a true lifesaver. Remember to complete your at-home test as soon as it arrives.”
In addition to providing participating stickers and air fresheners to the businesses, West Moreton Health will supply National Bowel Cancer Screening Program resources.
The Ipswich community can join in this important campaign by taking photos of their coffee cup stickers and posting them on social media using #SipAndScreen #BowelCancerScreening, and remind loved ones who may have a bowel screening kit sitting at home to complete it.
Bowel cancer is most common in people over 50 but can occur at any age.
“If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Speak with your doctor about what test might be right for you,” Ms Kelly said.
To order a replacement test, phone 1800 627 701.
For more information about the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, visit https://www.health.gov.au/nbcsp