minority – Genetics Engage

There is NHS data and charity data that confirms the poorer outcomes and later diagnosis of certain cancers in the Black population in the UK.

Information about the differences in experience, screening and diagnosis of cancer in Black people in the UK is publicly available from number of organisations. You can read more in the 2018 Race Equality Foundation briefing on ‘Cancer and Black and Minority Ethnic communities’ below:

http://raceequalityfoundation.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/REF-Better-Health-471-1.pdf

There are good examples of efforts to address these inequalities. Increasing awareness and knowledge about risks and screening can empower people to ask for the health services they need. More culturally sensitive services and staff is also key in ensuring that people in the Black community can expect the same health outcomes of any other group in the UK.

If you need help and support you can also contact charities such as:

BME cancer communities (https://www.bmecancer.com)

Cancer Equality Care – (https://cancerequality.co.uk)

Can survive UK (https://can-survive.org.uk)

Sasha

What is your personal view about why there is a disproportionate risk of Covid-19 in the Black, Asian and minority ethnic populations in the UK?

Health inequalities are very complex and can have serious consequnces on the health and wellbeing of populations. Although there are genetic factors that are being researched around how people are affected by Covid-19 this information needa to be considered with the complex interaction with underlying structures. Enviromental and social factors like housing, occupation, diet and underlying health conditions are often major determinants of our health outcomes and we need to explore more how they are distributed and why. This is why at Genetics Engage we are so passionate about improving the experience of health services like genetics for everyone.