Prevention and risk reduction
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a high incidence of cancers that are preventable. This includes lung cancer, liver cancer and cancers of the head and neck. Lung cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Increasing access to, and participation in, preventive healthcare is a priority for improving cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Preventive health activities include smoking cessation, as well as regular exercise, healthy eating and keeping alcohol consumption within agreed guidelines.
Data availability
Mayi Kuwayu: The National Study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing is collecting data from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia about health behaviours such as physical activity, alcohol and tobacco use, and health service use.
Further information
- Cancer Australia. National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Framework. Priority area 2: Focus prevention activities to address specific barriers and enablers to minimise cancer risk for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Cancer Australia. Optimal Care Pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with cancer. Step 1: Prevention and early detection
- Mayi Kuwayu: The National Study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing