A Review of Western Australian Researchers’ Contributions to Understanding Cancer Prevention and Outcomes in Aboriginal People

Aboriginal people in Western Australia (WA) experience poorer cancer outcomes compared to non-Aboriginal Australians, with significant disparities in cancer screening participation, later-stage diagnosis, and lower survival rates. This narrative review, informed by selected scoping methods, examined 69 peer-reviewed studies contributed by WA researchers from 2000 to 2024 to inform understanding of and address these inequities. Recurring issues requiring attention included promoting cultural safety in healthcare, addressing barriers to and disparities in cancer care, boosting cancer screening and awareness, enhancing education and communication, strengthening support systems and care navigation, improving treatment access and outcomes, and building workforce capacity. Recommendations to address the above challenges and improve cancer care and outcomes for Aboriginal people in WA included addressing barriers and disparities in cancer care; promoting effective education, communication, and culturally appropriate support; enhancing cancer screening participation and awareness initiatives; improving access to cancer treatment and outcomes; strengthening policy and system-level interventions; supporting families and communities throughout their cancer journey; building research capacity and data collection to guide Aboriginal and community-led initiatives. These recommendations highlighted that multi-level interventions are needed, from empowering Aboriginal people and strengthening communities to improving service delivery and driving systematic reforms. Overall, this narrative review informs future research, policy, and practice focused on equity to improve cancer outcomes for Aboriginal people in WA and beyond.