Let’s talk about the weather!
Let’s talk about our holidays!
Let’s talk about the match!
Let’s talk about cancer…well there’s a conversation stopper.
The fact is we’ll happily chat about the weather, our next trip away or why Saints* got relegated (sorry, sore topic) but cancer’s just not ‘up there’ on our list of top topics to chat about over a cuppa.
So, should we just avoid talking about it?
Cancer is a frightening subject. Anxiety about screenings, tests, biopsies, receiving a diagnosis, chemotherapy haunt our everyday lives. Sometimes we worry so much we avoid talking about the disease completely and shrug off our symptoms as just another sign of getting older.
Some find talking about cancer acutely triggering and struggle to utter the word. In some communities the subject of cancer is so taboo that those with the disease may be considered ‘cursed’ and subsequently cut off from friends and family.
But we need to look cancer in the eye
We need to face cancer head on. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, 1 in 2 people born in the UK will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. Whilst this figure may appear grim, survival rates for many cancers, especially those detected early, are on the rise so there are good reasons to be optimistic. According to Cancer Research UK, 50% of those diagnosed with cancer survive for 10 or more years. This survival rate has doubled over the last 50 years. Earlier diagnosis is key to improved outcomes. * *
Let’s empower communities to take action!
Our mission through the Communities Against Cancer project is to raise awareness of cancer and break the silence. We want to empower communities to talk about cancer in a way they feel comfortable. Being able to chat openly and proactively about cancer places individuals in a better position to get signs or symptoms checked out by a medical professional. In many cases it may not be cancer, but if it is, early diagnosis could lead to a better outcome.
Hear a powerful story from David, a cancer survivor
I was recently invited to a cancer awareness workshop at Stella’s Kitchen in Boscombe, Bournemouth hosted by Africa to Bournemouth CIC. Over a plate of homemade, delicious Chicken Jollof, participants listened to an uplifting presentation delivered by the engaging and approachable David Davis, a prostate cancer survivor.
Nationally, there is a high prevalence of prostate cancer in the Black community and so raising awareness of the disease is an effective way to prompt men to get signs and symptoms checked and learn about cancer prevention. He told us his story which was fuelled with positivity and hope.
At 69 years old, but looking more like 49, David is in his prime but just several years ago, his world fell apart.
After ignoring his symptoms for quite some time – despite his wife encouraging him to get them checked – David received a cancer diagnosis. Luckily, the cancer was treatable and whilst life was extremely tough for quite some time, he has made a full recovery.
Now a successful fitness and well-being coach, David shares his story with others to encourage his community to take care of their health. 1 in 4 Black men get prostate cancer compared to 1 in 8 Caucasian so he feels compelled to help make a difference in his community. He explained how a simple blood test (PSA) can now detect the cancer and how important it is to have any signs or symptoms investigated.
He talked about how important it is to eat well, exercise and have a positive outlook. Keeping fit and consuming the right foods can not only reduce the risk of getting cancer but can also help us recover quicker if we do get ill. A positive mindset can also contribute to this.
David’s story was uplifting. It wasn’t a scary lecture, full of frightening statistics urging us to act out of pure fear. His message was positive, empowering people to take control of their health. Live life well by eating healthy foods and keep active! When we feel something isn’t quite right visit a GP to get it checked! And if you’re worried about a friend or relative encourage them to do the same!
So, let’s talk about cancer and take positive action
In the battle against cancer, we all need to be aware of signs and symptoms and the measures we can take to reduce our chances of getting the disease. How we share this information may vary depending on the community but it’s important to keep the messages positive and clear and encourage open discussion so that any fear which prevents us from taking necessary action is lifted.
Would you like to take positive action against cancer in your community?
Find out more about our Communities Against Cancer project. We currently have grants available to help encourage your beneficiaries to take control of their health.
Follow this link to find out more
*Southampton Football Club
**latest statistics are from 2010-11 in England and Wales
