The Bhutanese Australian Community Support Group Albury Wodonga Inc. (BACSGAW), as part of the Punya Foundation’s program funded by Cancer Australia under the Supporting People with Cancer Grant Program, successfully delivered its third and final cancer awareness session at Albury PCYC. The session was conducted in collaboration with STARTTS and formed part of ongoing efforts to enhance cancer awareness and health literacy within the predominantly Nepali-speaking Bhutanese community.
The session was facilitated by Dr Narayan Khanal and focused on improving participants’ understanding of cancer prevention, early detection, and access to local health services. Key educational discussions covered common cancers affecting the community, including colorectal, breast, prostate, and skin cancers. Emphasis was placed on recognising early warning signs, participating in national screening programs, and seeking timely medical advice.
Despite challenging weather conditions, including rain and cold, the session achieved a strong turnout. This demonstrated the community’s continued interest and commitment to engaging with culturally appropriate health education initiatives. Participants were provided with Nepali-language cancer education pamphlets developed by Punya Foundation, ensuring that information was accessible, relevant, and easy to understand.
In addition to cancer-specific education, the session included practical guidance on navigating the Australian healthcare system. Topics included how to access GP services, the role of screening programs, availability of interpreter-supported services, and pathways to local support services. The interactive format encouraged open discussion, allowing participants to ask questions, share personal experiences, and address common misconceptions surrounding cancer and screening practices.
The positive engagement observed throughout the session highlights the importance and effectiveness of community-led, culturally responsive health education. It also underscores the ongoing need for accessible health information tailored to the linguistic and cultural context of the Bhutanese community.