Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk (Talk together) about cancer trials, is focussed on Aboriginal people on and around Yorta Yorta Country. It is part of the ReViTALISE project, which encompasses seven initiatives designed to increase access to cancer clinical trials in regional Victoria. While Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk works locally, the project seeks to develop culturally relevant clinical trial resources for widespread use.
Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk involves:
1) Co-design of appropriate clinical trial resources with the Aboriginal community.
2) An information campaign for cancer health professionals to improve understanding of strategies that may increase clinical trial participation by Aboriginal people with cancer.
The project is underpinned by key principles in co-design with First Nations people (Anderson et. al. 2023). This presentation will focus on component 1), including practical examples of how the principles have been observed.
Lotjpa Yapaneyepuk has established strong relationships with the Aboriginal community and Aboriginal organisations, guided by prioritisation of Aboriginal leadership, shared decision-making and the need for a culturally grounded approach. A Steering Committee provides governance oversight, which includes an Aboriginal co-chair and strong Aboriginal membership. An Aboriginal Advisory Group guides implementation. The project team strives for transparent, equitable and collaborative partnerships with all stakeholders and continuous self-reflection by non-Aboriginal team members.
Yarning circles have been held to understand community knowledge and perspectives about cancer trials, and preferences for resource design. Engagement has been strong, with 8 Yarning circles held across 7 locations, involving 29 people (20 females and 9 males). The age range was 18-74 years (median 52 years). Most participants had been family members of people with cancer, with a range of clan groups represented. Knowledge of cancer trials was limited, however participants expressed need for appropriate resources. Collaborative Yarning groups are planned (August), to develop and refine clinical trial resources, with completion anticipated November 2025.