Lung health information for First Nations

We understand that lung health is greatly improved when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities own their lung health initiatives. Lung Foundation Australia aim to add value to these efforts by working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations on information resources. We work with First Nations organisations on projects focused on vaping, immunisation, and chronic cough.

Preventing vaping in youth

We worked with Na Joomelah to develop videos and fact sheets for First Nations youth living in the La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council area. Na Joomelah is a Tackling Indigenous Smoking team serving Sydney and Wollongong communities. The resources help youth better understand the impact of vaping on themselves, those around them, and the environment. We are currently working with another Tackling Indigenous Smoking team in Queensland on resources for their community.

Encouraging immunisation to protect mob

We have worked with Supply Nation companies since 2021 to deliver a campaign on influenza and pneumonia vaccination for First Nations Australians. The campaign involves social media, postcards for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical services, and our ‘Protect your mob’ page.

Identifying chronic wet cough in children

We worked with leaders in First Nations health and a Supply Nation company to co-produce a factsheet about the warning signs of chronic wet cough. A chronic wet cough in children can be a sign of serious lung disease. The factsheet also talks about ways to keep children’s lungs healthy.

Help available to quit smoking and vaping

Quitline has Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander counsellors to support people wanting to quit using tobacco products and e-cigarettes. The free service is available anywhere in Australia. To access, call 13 7848 and ask to speak with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander counsellor. You can also request a callback from Quitline. To request this and to learn more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Quitline, visit their website.

Lung cancer screening

The National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) is leading the co-design of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. NACCHO is supporting Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to develop community-led, locally tailored, and culturally appropriate activities that support participation and engagement in screening. To learn more, visit NACCHO’s website.