Cancer diagnosis delayed by skin colour, say patients
People from ethnic backgrounds have said they believe their cancer diagnoses are being delayed due to a breakdown in communication across the healthcare system.
Israel Eguaogia who speaks on behalf of iAssist-NI, said he was advocating for nine people who felt their colour, religion and language had hampered their access to healthcare.
The most serious cases involve delays in detecting the spread of cancer, with some patients now facing a terminal illness.
The Department of Health said while there was support to aid accessibility for those from ethnic minority backgrounds, it acknowledged some patients may "still find it challenging".
Israel Eguaogia highlighted two cases of patients who have died after finding out their cancer had spread and it was too late for medical intervention.
"A big challenge is the language barrier, and we are asking for more interpreters so we can mitigate these challenges," he said.
One recurring theme among those he represents is a sense of not being taken seriously or a feeling of being "prejudiced".
Source: BBC News, 15 August 2024