Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) is leading a Bowel Cancer Screening Project in Corio and Norlane until June 2020 to increase screening participation rates among 50-74 year-olds.
The community-led project has funding from the Department of Health and Human Services and is made up of an advisory committee, comprising five community members, who advise and inform WVPHN on initiatives. The Cancer Screening Community Project Officer is also available for group presentations and sets up regular information stalls.
Bowel screening has been recognised as a priority for 50-74 year-olds. Corio and Norlane National Bowel Screening Program rates sit below the national average, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2015-16 Cancer Screening Rates.
To help prevent bowel cancer in men and women aged 50-74, WVPHN is also running a Peer Education Project in Corio/Norlane. It is seeking Peer Educators, who will be paid $40 an hour for approximately 8-10 hours of training, peer sessions and evaluations.
To get involved or if you are interested in more information or a bowel cancer screening presentation at your organisation/community group, please contact: Anne O’Callaghan, Cancer Screening Community Project Officer, Western Victoria Primary Health Network, phone 5222-0876 or email [email protected].