A community champion led breast cancer screening intervention for underserved groups
This study aims to help more women in Hounslow attend their NHS breast cancer screening appointments. These screenings are important for finding cancer early, which can save lives. Only about half of women in London currently go, especially fewer from minority ethnic backgrounds or less wealthy areas. The study involves local women, called 'community champions,' sharing simple, reliable information about screening. You might see leaflets, videos, or hear from champions at local events. If you're in the target group, you're not joining a trial, but you might receive this information. Some women may be asked to complete a short survey about what they saw. It's about getting helpful health information to you.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Breast cancer is a serious illness, affecting about 1 in 8 women in their lifetime. The good news is that finding it early through regular screening can make a big difference and save lives. The NHS offers free breast screening every three years to women aged 50 to 70. However, not everyone attends these appointments. In London, for example, less than 60% of women go, which is below the recommended target. This is especially true for women from certain community backgrounds or those living in areas with fewer resources.
This study wants to help change that, specifically in Hounslow. Researchers are working with trusted women from local communities, who they call “community champions.” These champions will share helpful information and encourage other women to attend their breast screening appointments. The aim is to make sure more women understand the importance of screening and feel comfortable going.
You won't be asked to join a special medical experiment. Instead, if you live in Hounslow and are in the target age group, you might simply see or hear messages about breast screening. This could be through things like leaflets, videos, bus stop adverts, or local radio. You might also meet community champions at local events, or in places like hair salons or faith groups. Some women may be asked to take a quick survey to see if they saw the information and what they thought about it.
Key takeaways
- Aims to encourage more women in Hounslow to attend breast screening.
- Uses trusted local women ('community champions') to share information.
- Targets women aged 50-70, especially from diverse backgrounds.
- Participation means receiving information, no medical procedures.
- Main benefit is trusted health information; no known risks.
- Funded by a UK government health research body.
Who may be eligible?
This study is particularly looking to reach women in Hounslow who are between 50 and 70 years old and are invited for routine NHS breast screening. It's especially focused on women who are from minority ethnic backgrounds or live in areas that are less well-off, as these groups tend to have lower attendance rates for screening.
To be clear, you won't be 'enrolling' in a clinical trial. Instead, if you fit the description above, you are the group the study is trying to reach with its information. If you're not in Hounslow, or if you're outside the 50-70 age range for screening, then you wouldn't be part of the group receiving this specific information from the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a woman?
- Are you between 50 and 70 years old?
- Do you live in Hounslow?
- Have you been invited for NHS breast screening?
- Do you come from a minority ethnic background or live in a less wealthy area?
What does participation involve?
If you are part of the target group in Hounslow, participating in this study simply means you might see or hear messages about breast cancer screening. This could be through various everyday channels like leaflets you pick up, videos you see online or in public, or even adverts on buses. You might also hear from local 'community champions' at events, community centres, salons, or faith groups. They will be sharing reliable information about breast screening.
You won't have any appointments to attend for the study itself, nor will you need to take any medication or undergo any tests for the study. For some women, there might be an opportunity to complete a short survey. This survey would ask if you saw the materials and how you felt about the information, and it would be completely voluntary. The study is planned to run from January 2025 to August 2026, during which time these information efforts will be active.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hounslow Local AuthorityUnverifiedUnited Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'community champion'?
A community champion is a trusted local woman who will share information about breast screening with women in her community in a friendly and helpful way.
Will I have to do anything if I participate?
No, you don't have to 'do' anything. You might simply see or hear messages about breast screening. Some women might be asked to fill out a short, voluntary survey.
Who is paying for this study?
This study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.
How long will this study last?
The study is expected to run from January 2025 until August 2026.
Why is breast screening so important?
Breast screening helps to find breast cancer early, often before you notice any symptoms, which gives you the best chance for successful treatment.
How to find out more
Gaby Judah
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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