Lung Cancer is the Same in Every Language

She’s a community leader in the North East London Polish and Eastern European community, based in Havering.

She is sharing her father’s story to help raise awareness of lung cancer symptoms and potential risk factors. After years of dust exposure at work, one of his routine screenings suggested a respiratory issue, but further testing revealed it to be lung cancer.

Seeing what her father went through now drives Monika to encourage others to recognise workplace risks, take persistent symptoms seriously, and get checked early.

He grew up in Tower Hamlets and is well known through his work with the Bangla Housing Association.

When his father, who had smoked for many years, developed a persistent cough that was later diagnosed as lung cancer, Shah saw how important it is to notice changes early and speak to a GP. 

By sharing his family’s experience, he hopes to help others in the Bangladeshi community understand the risks, pay attention to symptoms that don’t go away, seek timely support from health professionals and embrace healthier lifestyles for early detection and prevention. 

Anthony has lived in Hackney for most of his life and is proud of his Jamaican roots and the close-knit community he's part of.

Having seen how lung cancer has affected members of his community, he knows its not always something people feel comfortable talking about. By taking part in this campaign, he wants to encourage an open conversation about lung cancer, help people to spot the signs and symptoms of lung cancer and to go see their doctor as soon as possible if they notice changes in their lung health. 

Anthony is a representative profile reflecting real experiences.