Most bowel cancers (sometimes called colorectal, colon or rectal cancers) start as benign, non-cancerous growths called ‘polyps’ that form on the inner lining or the wall of the bowel [43924]. These polyps may become cancerous if they are not removed.

Family history, genetics, inflammatory bowel disease and a previous diagnosis of bowel cancer can increase a person’s likelihood of developing the disease [43924]. Lifestyle factors can also increase the chance of developing bowel cancer, however this risk can be reduced by:

• eating a high-fibre diet – which includes lots of fruits and vegetables
• limiting the consumption of red meat and avoiding processed meat
• not smoking
• limiting alcohol consumption
• being physically active
• maintaining a healthy body weight [43924].

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It has the highest survival rate of all cancers among this population, however it also has one of the highest mortality rates [42101], which may be due to low participation in bowel screening programs. This is a particular risk for those in remote areas, where access to health services can be limited [47262].

Initiatives such as the National Indigenous Bowel Screening Pilot Project have helped to address low rates of participation among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which is important as when found early, bowel cancer is one of the most treatable cancers [43926]. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can currently receive free screening for bowel cancer via the Australian Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Breast cancer occurs when there is abnormal and uncontrolled growth of the cells in breast tissue [43925]. These cells may to spread to other parts of the body. While both males and females can develop breast cancer, it is uncommon in males. Transgender and gender diverse people can also get breast cancer.

Some of the risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history and genetics [43925]. Lifestyle factors such as an inadequate diet, physical inactivity and alcohol consumption also increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander females [42101] and is the second highest cause of cancer-related mortality among this population [44306].

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have low rates of participation in breast screening programs [47846], however initiatives such as The Beautiful Shawl Project aim to increase these rates of participation, by providing culturally safe and empowering health care experiences.