We’re here to help LGBTQ people take steps to prevent their risk of cancer and find support after diagnosis and treatment.
Cancer Basics
What is cancer?
Cancer is a term used for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues. Cancer can affect any part of the body. Although no two cancers are the same, all cancers have one thing in common. Every cancer starts when some cells in the body become abnormal and grow and multiply out of control.
How can you reduce your cancer risk?
A cancer risk factor is something that can increase your chance of getting cancer. You can change some by leading a healthy and active life. This includes drinking less alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthy, being more active, protecting your skin and quitting smoking. 1 in 3 cancers can be prevented through these healthy lifestyle changes.1 There are some risk factors you cannot change like your age and genetics.
(1 Whiteman, D., Webb, P., Green, A., Neale, R., Fritschi, L., & Bain, C. et al. (2015). Cancers in Australia in 2010 attributable to modifiable factors: summary and conclusions. Australian And New Zealand Journal Of Public Health, 39(5), 477-484. doi: 10.1111/1753-6405.12471)
Why is it important to screen for cancer?
Cancer screening can save lives.
Screening programs look for early signs of cancer or indications that a person is more likely to develop the disease in the future. In most cases, early detection improves chances of successful treatment for patients and can also mean a greater range of treatment options is available.
National screening programs are available for breast cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer.
LGBTQ communities and cancer
Research has revealed that lifestyle factors such as higher rates of drinking and smoking, plus lower cancer screening rates, are putting LGBTQ communities at a greater risk of cancer than the general population. But together, we can do something about this. Can We is the new platform by ACON, to help each other stay healthy and reduce our risk of cancer. We’re here to help our communities look after ourselves and out for each other, so we can live well with fewer worries.
Cancer Prevention and Screening
Bowel Cancer
When it comes to bowel cancer screening in our community, we need to get our kit together. If detected early, more than 90% of cases can be treated successfully.
Breast Cancer
Anyone with breast tissue can get breast cancer regardless of family history, gender identity or sexuality. Join our united front against breast cancer, book a screen today.
Cervical Cancer
Did you know that LGBTQ people are less likely to screen for cervical cancer than the general population? Everybody with a cervix is at risk of cervical cancer. If you have a cervix, you need to screen.
