Australian Bhutanese Society of Northern Tasmania Inc (ABSNT) organised a Cancer Awareness Session for the Nepali-speaking migrant community in Mowbray, Tasmania, to improve awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, screening programs, and available support services. The program is and initiative of Punya Foundation aimed to strengthen health literacy within multicultural communities while encouraging positive health-seeking behaviour.
The session was held on 31 March 2026 at Mowbray, Tasmania, and was attended by members of the Nepali-speaking community, including men, women, youth, cancer survivors, and family members of people affected by cancer. The session was facilitated by Ms Siobhan Reid and Ms Luisa Truscott from Cancer Council Tasmania. Interpretation support was provided by Dr Santosh Adhikari, helping participants clearly understand the important health information in their own language.
The facilitators shared practical and easy-to-understand information on cancer prevention, bowel cancer screening, healthy lifestyle practices, and available support services. Participants learned about the importance of early cancer detection, regular health checks, and participation in national screening programs. The session also explored challenges faced by multicultural communities, including language barriers and limited awareness of available health services.
Participants were introduced to support services available through Cancer Council Tasmania and related organisations, including emotional wellbeing support, transport assistance, wellness programs, and resources for individuals and families affected by cancer.
The program created a culturally safe and welcoming environment where participants could openly discuss health concerns and ask questions comfortably in their own language. Participants shared positive feedback about the session and expressed interest in attending more culturally appropriate health education programs in the future.
Punya Foundation sincerely thanks Cancer Council Tasmania, ABSNT, volunteers, and all community members who contributed to the success of the program. This program was proudly funded by the Australian Government through Cancer Australia’s Supporting People with Cancer Grant Program.