Although cancer screening can save lives, participation among UK ethnic minority groups remains low - especially within Black communities. Cancer Research UK defines cancer screening as the testing for early signs of cancer in people without symptoms. As fewer Black African and Caribbean individuals take part in important screening tests for breast, bowel, and cervical cancers, as well as abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), they are at an increased risk of being diagnosed with serious illnesses too late.

Many factors can prevent people from getting screened, such as a lack of awareness of opportunities, feelings of embarrassment, or previous negative healthcare experiences. These challenges can vary across ethnic minority groups.

This is where EQUITy in Black Adult Health (EQUITA) comes in: EQUITA is a randomized feasibility trial designed to address health inequality by developing a specialised workshop - created with and for the Black community - to inform and encourage participation in these potentially life-saving tests. 

NIHR logo is visible, and a black patient undergoes medical testing.

The proposed workshop is tailored to meet the needs of Black communities by incorporating faith and culture into its approach. It will include:

  • Open discussions about fears and barriers to screening
  • Talks from Black doctors
  • Real stories from community members
  • Guidance on speaking with doctors
  • Input from church leaders
  • A welcoming social setting with food and music

This NIHR-funded project is led by the University of Sunderland, and HEHTA Research Fellow Manuela Deidda is a co-investigator. Manuela will be leading the economic evaluation by developing a decision analytic model to explore the potential cost-effectiveness of the EQUITA intervention compared to the control.

The project is set to launch in March 2025 and will run until February 2027.

Read more about the project on the NIHR website: https://www.fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR164073

First published: 25 March 2025

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