The Illawarra Aboriginal Medical Service established a Cancer Care Team for its clients 12 months ago, and already screening rates for certain cancers have improved.

On Friday the team held an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event to raise funds for NSW Cancer Council’s research, prevention, support and advocacy services.

Team co-ordinator Kyla Wallace said the incidence of cancers including lung, breast and gynacological cancers were far higher in indigenous populations.

‘’For many specific types of cancer, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people rank higher than non-Aboriginal people,’’ she said.

‘’We established this team to support our clients in every aspect of their cancer journey from screening, diagnosis and treatment; right through to end-of-life planning.

‘’Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people historically have difficulty engaging with services, so part of our role is to help pave the path for them.’’

The Wollongong event was one of around 1000 morning teas to be held throughout the Illawarra and Shoalhaven this month.

NSW Cancer Council regional spokeswoman Emma Swords said an estimated 2810 residents would be diagnosed with cancer this year alone.

Ms Swords said funds raised from morning teas would go towards a range of programs available to South Coast residents, including a new ‘portal’ for indigenous people containing culturally appropriate information.

‘’Cancer is the second highest cause of death for Aboriginal people and we know that Aboriginal people are 60 per cent more likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal people,’’ she said.

‘’For instance, a recent study into survivorship after surgical treatment for bowel cancer found that Aboriginal people were 68 per cent more likely to die five years after diagnosis than non-Aboriginal people.

‘’So we know more research needs to be done in this space, and more programs need to focus on improving screening and access to follow-up treatment for these people.’’

Visit www.cancercouncil.com.au/aboriginalcancer