The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) is launching an online support series to help stop cancer becoming the "forgotten C" during the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual sessions are for health professionals and people living with and beyond cancer.
Two sessions are for health professionals and have a particular focus on reducing racial inequalities in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
The third session is a support group specifically for people living with breast cancer and breast cancer survivors to improve their quality-of-life through nutrition.
Every month the sessions will focus on a different type of cancer. As it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October’s sessions focus on breast cancer, with prostate cancer scheduled for November.
The patient support group will be hosted by WCRF oncology dietitian, Adele Hug, who said: “We have seen through the pandemic how much cancer services have been derailed and the impact this has had on those living with cancer. It’s been a struggle for some people living with cancer to get the appropriate advice they need."
“Eating well and having regular support from a health professional are important for people living with cancer, which is why these sessions will provide tailored advice dependent on the attendees' needs. I’ll be there to help you make sense of any information you’ve read online and address any questions you have around nutrition and cancer.”
Toral Shah, breast cancer survivor, nutritionist, and Founder of the Urban Kitchen is hosting the sessions for health professionals. She said: “Sadly, there are huge inequalities in cancer care in the UK in black, Asian, and minority ethnic groups. In part, this is because some health care professionals are not aware or understanding of the cultural and socioeconomic differences that can impact these patients. We know that early diagnosis of breast cancer helps to save lives and this starts with raising awareness and education, along with combatting prejudice within the health care system.”
For further information or to sign-up for a session, click here.
