Now in its tenth year, Bowel Cancer Awareness Week is an annual public education initiative of the Institute centred on one week in June.

The Week aims to raise public awareness of a disease that claims the lives of 80 Australians every week as bowel cancer is the most common cancer in Australia to affect both men and women and is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer after lung cancer.

Bowel Cancer Awareness Week has a positive message – saving lives through early detection – as bowel cancer is one of the most curable types of cancer if found early. Activities during the Week promote and encourage Australians who are at a higher risk of developing the disease or experiencing symptoms to consult their doctor.

A highlight of the Week is Red Apple Day (Wednesday, 9 June 2010), where Australians are encouraged to help raise funds for vital research and community awareness campaigns through the purchase of a $2 apple pin.

The 'apple pin' symbolises our bowel cancer message.

The outline of the apple logo appears as an abstract of a human colon.

The small hole in the apple is caused by a worm. If detected early and removed, the worm is unable to infect and kill the otherwise healthy apple.

It's the same with people - if bowel cancer is detected early through screening it can be removed and people can continue to enjoy a healthy life.

Apples are also a nutritious source of dietary fibre.

Click here to email a request for promotional materials (please provide your postal address and phone number)

Apple pins and an It’s Crunch Time™ display box

Purchase an apple pin / order a display box  (PDF)
Apple pin display box assembly instructions  (PDF)
Download a Bowel Cancer – Are you at risk? brochure  (PDF)
Download a Bowel Cancer – Are you at risk?  poster  (PDF)