First data in a decade highlights ethnic disparities in cancer

PIF member Cancer Research UK has published the first analysis in more than 10 years looking at which ethnic groups in England are more likely to get cancer.

The research shows rates of some cancers vary by ethnicity.

White people in England, are more than twice as likely to get some types of cancer, including melanoma skin cancer, oesophageal, bladder and lung cancers compared with people from black, Asian or mixed ethnic backgrounds. 

However, prostate cancer and myeloma are both more common in black people. 

The study also found black people are more likely to get stomach and liver cancers, and Asian people are more likely to get liver cancers.

Cancer Research UK

Addressing health inequalities for people living with disabilities

A new scoping review says digital health ecosystems should be designed with health equity at the forefront to avoid deepening existing health inequalities. 

The article explores the potential benefits of digital technologies for the global population, with particular reference to people living with disabilities.

It looks at policies in Sweden, Australia, Canada, Estonia, the United Kingdom and the United States to learn how policies can lay an inclusive foundation for digital health systems. 

The authors call for a more sophisticated understanding of digital health literacy to better assess readiness to adopt digital health innovations. 

They also say people living with disabilities should be positioned at the centre of digital health policy and innovations.

JMIR

New Long Covid support and information tool

PIF member Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation has worked with 15 other VCSE organisations to create a new tool designed to support those with Long Covid.

My Long COVID Needs helps users understand their current Long Covid symptoms and helps them explain them to a GP.

The tool also signposts further advice and support.

It addresses some of the most common concerns Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation has been hearing through its helpline.

My Long Covid

Rare Diseases Action Plan published

England's first Rare Diseases Action Plan has been published, including 16 commitments to improve care.

The plan was announced by the Government to mark Rare Disease Day 2022 in February.

It was developed in partnership with PIF members NHS England and NHS Improvement, NICE and Health Education England. 

Other partners include Genomics England, the National Institute for Health Research, NHS Digital and the Medical Research Council.

GOV.UK

Video: Culturally sensitive communications

A recent seminar hosted by Barnardo’s looked at culturally relevant communications and how they can reduce ethnic and racial disparities in care quality. 

The seminar was designed for NHS communications teams but may be of interest to anyone working with service users. 

It focuses on learning from the Boloh helpline, which supports people from black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. 

A recording of the event is available by clicking on the link below.

YouTube

PIF member publishes Breaking the Silence strategy

The Royal Osteoporosis Society has vowed to raise awareness of the condition as part of its new four-year strategy.

Breaking the Silence outlines the charity's plans to raise awareness and inspire action among the public and policy-makers, demanding change for the millions of people living with osteoporosis.

A new advertising campaign will warn people at high risk and investment in digital support services will aim to help more people live well with osteoporosis.

Royal Osteoporosis Society

Video: Avoiding creating barriers for disabled people

AbilityNet has released a recording of its recent Don't Disable Me webinar.

The event saw people with lived experience of disability discussing the barriers they face day-to-day.

The panel also spoke about the ways in which simple adjustments and considerations can make a world of difference. 

Watch the recording on YouTube via the link below.

AbilityNet

Easy Read version of Ready Steady Baby! published

An Easy Read version of Ready Steady Baby!, Scotland's guide to pregnancy, labour, birth, and early parenthood, has been published.

It was developed with and for parents with learning disabilities. 

The resource may also be helpful for parents with other communication needs, including those with low literacy levels or English as a second language.

Twenty short booklets give expectant parents practical information and support throughout pregnancy, through to a baby’s first two months.

Public Health Scotland

Social Prescribing Day 2022

Social Prescribing Day 2022 takes place on Thursday, 10 March.

The annual event aims to recognise community groups and projects keeping people healthy during the pandemic and beyond.

Assets and toolkits are available via the link below.

National Academy for Social Prescribing