The Basingstoke Nepalese Community (BNC) hosted an event in October to raise cancer awareness in the community. The event was made possible by funding from a Communities Against Cancer (CAC) grant.
Held at the Carnival Hall in Basingstoke, the main aim was to support people to access cancer services by promoting cancer awareness. Altogether about 100 people participated on the day.
The event was supported by the Nepal Nursing Association UK (NNAUK) who provided free health check services. People had their blood pressure checked and had their body mass index (BMI) measured. They were also provided with healthy lifestyle advice. Many men and women of different ages benefitted from this and would like to have this service in the community again.
There were health talks from a number of speakers including:
Dr Venkat Subramaniam, a Colorectal Consultant at Basingstoke Hospital, talked about cancer and the importance of healthy lifestyles.
Dr Bhumika Budhathoki, a GP in Basingstoke, gave a talk on women’s health.
Alpana Adhikari, a nurse, gave a presentation on the symptoms of respiratory problems.
Manu Rai shared her experience about the cancer pathway.
Nisha Sharma talked about cancer in general.
Nisha, the programme coordinator, thanked the speakers and everyone involved in the event, adding, ‘I am so happy to mention that this event has provided the forum for all to interact, and plan for future health activities for the community people. After the programme we have formed BNC health champions volunteers’ team to support the community in future…thank you Communities Against Cancer for funding this project and making it possible to organise this community event’.
Visit the Action Hampshire website for more information about Communities Against Cancer, including free online workshops and details about how to apply.
Communities Against Cancer is a partnership between Action Hampshire and Wessex Cancer Alliance