July is Ethnic Minority Cancer Awareness Month
This month long campaign exists to raise awareness of cancer health inequalities faced by Black, Asian and minority ethnic people.
Cancer can affect anyone, but the risk, awareness, and outcomes can differ significantly between ethnic groups. For example, myeloma and stomach cancer are more common in Black people. Gallbladder cancer is more prevalent in Black and Asian people, and Black men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men.
Awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer may be lower in some communities, and there can also be barriers to screening and early diagnosis, such as stigma, language, or a lack of trust in health services.
It is important to raise awareness of some of the signs and symptoms of cancer to look out for:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Persistent cough or hoarseness
- Changes in a mole or skin
- Lumps of swellings
- Unexplained persistent pain
- Difficulty swallowing or indigestion
- Changes in vision, hearing or speech
If you notice any of the above, do not hesitate to discuss any concerns with your doctor.
The Ethnic Minority Cancer Awareness Month campaign wants to help remove the stigma about cancer in ethnic groups, increase the uptake of cancer screening invites. Encourage people to be proactive and be an advocate for themselves by making sure they feel listened to.
If you, a friend, or a family member receives an invite to a cancer screening, please attend. Early detection of cancer is critical; the earlier the diagnosis, the more likely a better outcome. This will also give the health system more data to work from, so future generations can benefit.
Trust the professionals and invite them into community conversations when discussing cancer with Black, Asian and other ethnic minority groups. The more open the discussion, the quicker health inequalities will start to reduce.