About the study
Between 2007 and 2017, we investigated this cluster of vulvar cancer to:
- Find out the extent of the problem
- Try to identify why Indigenous women in East Arnhem are disproportionately affected
- Improve community and health professional awareness of the problem
- Develop better strategies for preventing, diagnosing and treating vulvar cancer in women in the affected communities.
Community education
Understanding the vulvar cancer story In Yolngu Matha
Understanding the vulvar cancer story In English
Most vulvar cancer in East Arnhem is caused by HPV It can also be influenced by family genetics and smoking
For more information, watch the ‘Understanding the vulvar cancer story’ videos above
It’s important to have regular well women’s check ups at the clinic You should go every two years OR If you have a mother or sister who has had vulvar cancer, you should go every year
Signs of vulvar cancer
- Itchiness
- Patches of skin that change colour
- Little sores or bumps
You can protect against vulvar cancer by getting a needle against HPV. Young people can get these needles through their schools.
Training tool for health professionals
Identifying vulvar lesions in East Arnhem women
We have developed a training tool for Top End health professionals to help identify vulvar cancer and high grade vulvar lesions, to know who and when to screen, and what to do when you find something. Health professionals working with women from East Arnhem communities need to be aware of the importance of checking for signs of vulvar cancer, and how to recognise it when they see it.
