Taking Control of Cancer

In this special two-part episode of Taking Control of Cancer, we’re diving into a topic that could save lives - breast screening. Every year, breast screening helps detect cancer early, when it's most treatable. Yet many people still feel unsure, anxious, or even avoid making the appointment. 

So in these episodes Steve Bland is joined by Mansi Tara, Health Promotion Lead, and Claire Mabena, Lead Nurse, both from the North London and Central and East London Breast Screening Service to take you through everything you need to know, from what actually happens at a breast screening appointment to why it’s so important, and what the latest facts and figures tell us.
 
We also address some of the most common concerns and misconceptions, as we know that fear, confusion, and lack of information can be real barriers. Whether you’ve never been for a screening before or you’re encouraging a friend or family member to go, we want to offer clarity, reassurance, and honest answers. Breast screening isn’t just another appointment, it’s a powerful step in protecting your health.
 
The first part of this episode will be a ‘back-to-basics’ guide, covering every aspect of the patient’s journey, from receiving the invite letter to making the appointment, attending and receiving the results. It will look at why it is so important, what it checks for and what the age ranges are. 

The second part will look at some of the myths and barriers to attending and how we can overcome these to help increase the uptake.

What is Taking Control of Cancer?

Welcome to Taking Control of Cancer, the podcast from the North East London Cancer Alliance. Think of us as your ‘how to’ guide when it comes to busting common cancer myths, overcoming fears and barriers, and improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.

This series aims to provide both patients and healthcare professionals with tangible things they can do to help when it comes to cancer. Whilst we know not all cancers are preventable, there are things we can all do that could make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of our family, friends and colleagues.

There are two underlying themes across all episodes – the importance of early diagnosis, and reducing health inequalities.

Host:
Steve Bland is an award-winning podcaster and producer and one of the three presenters of the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C, which was set up by his first wife - BBC presenter Rachael Bland - before her death from triple negative breast cancer in 2018.

Regular guests:
Dr Angela Wong, Chief Medical Officer, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Angela is a driving force behind improving cancer diagnostics for residents across north east London. As Chief Medical Officer for the North East London Cancer Alliance, Angela works tirelessly on delivering innovation and service improvements for cancer patients.

Femi Odewale, Managing Director, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Femi leads the programme teams from the North East London Cancer Alliance across three core areas of work: Early Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Treatment, and Personalised Care.