EMCAW 2008

Our work in 2008

In 2008 EMCAW was focused upon London, as one of the most diverse and vibrant cities in the world; around 30 per cent of the population belongs to an ethnic minority and over 250 languages are spoken. London was selected as the city to launch EMCAW because in a number of areas the city leads the way in the provision of services to minority communities. At the same time there are inequalities in the cancer incidence and mortality experienced by different communities compared to the general population. Furthermore, evidence suggests that barriers exist for ethnic minorities in accessing cancer information and services which may impact upon cancer survival rates.

PhotoOur overarching theme within 2008 was asking a range of organisations, including health service providers and policy makers, to improve services for ethnic minority communities by signing up to the following statement.

I support the removal of barriers to ethnic minority uptake of cancer services and will work towards:

  • The systematic recording of robust ethnicity data within the cancer services in my area.
  • Using the experiences of ethnic minorities to develop services for diverse communities.
  • The implementation of targeted information and support, to reduce inequalities in cancer, and meet the health needs of diverse communities.
  • Gathering information about the services already provided for ethnic minorities in order to develop good practice.

We also asked individuals from ethnic minority communities to take an active role in reducing their risk of developing cancer by agreeing to the following statement.

I am aware that cancer affects 1 in 3 individuals and:

  • I will know what is normal for my body and see my doctor if I notice any changes.
  • I will take part in appropriate national cancer screening services available to me.
  • I will be informed of the cancer services I am entitled to.
  • I will find out about the things that I can do to reduce my own risk of developing cancer.

The work was funded by the Cancer Action Team and they continue to support EMCAW.

EMCAW Report 2008

Front Page EMCAW Report

In 2008 the EMCAW Steering Group and The One Event Ltd compiled  a report which detailed information about our work.

The report is set out around the following headings:

  • Aims and Objectives
  • Facts and Statistics
  • The Alliance (The Awareness Week, Community Events, Feedback)
  • Media Coverage (Evaluation, Coverage, Press Cuttings).