Episode 19: Talking about the C word

In this episode we're talking about the C Word and breaking the silence around cancer as host Steve Bland is joined by Paul Thomas, Communications and Engagement Manager at the North East London Cancer Alliance, to explore the role of communications in cancer and how conversations can save lives.

 

It’s good to talk. Yet despite incredible advances in cancer diagnosis, treatment and care, “the C word” remains one of the hardest topics to talk about. But could breaking that silence be the key to saving lives?

 

In this powerful episode, host Steve sits down with Paul to explore how fear, stigma and silence still shape the way we deal with cancer.

 

From encouraging early GP visits and screening uptake, to creating safe spaces for people to open up, they dive into why conversations really matter, and how we can all play a part in changing the narrative.

 

Whether you're personally affected or work in healthcare, this episode sheds light on what’s working, what’s not, and what we can all do to help people get the right support at the right time.

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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.