Cancer awareness event at Brick Lane Mosque welcomed by the community

On Saturday 14 June 2025, North East London Cancer Alliance, in partnership with British Islamic Medical Association, hosted a successful cancer awareness event at Brick Lane Mosque, bringing vital health information to the heart of the Bengali community in Tower Hamlets.

The event, held shortly after mid-afternoon prayers, was attended by over 30 men and featured informative sessions on key cancer types including lung, bowel, prostate and testicular cancers.

A local dentist also provided a dedicated presentation on oral cancer, while a prostate cancer survivor gave a moving personal account of his journey through diagnosis and treatment.

Attendees benefited from engaging presentations which highlighted the importance of recognising cancer symptoms early and participating in regular screening. The event aimed to support early diagnosis and help reduce health inequalities among minority communities.

Patient Engagement and Experience Lead for North East London Cancer Alliance, Sarah Koya, played a key role in the planning and delivery of the session, collecting feedback from attendees to help shape future engagement efforts.

“Thank you for your involvement and continuous support in the planning and delivery of this project. The initiative was well received by the community,” said Sarah. “The session was attended by over 30 residents from the Bengali community in Tower Hamlets. Special thanks to Qadir Bakhsh, Patient Partner, and to Brick Lane Mosque and Brick Lane Funeral for their generous hospitality. We look forward to future collaborations.”

The event was covered by Bengali TV, who broadcast a news segment on the day, and was also attended by local dignitaries including a Tower Hamlets councillor and a Bengali TV journalist.

Brick Lane Mosque continues to demonstrate a proactive commitment to addressing health inequalities and expressed keen interest in hosting future health awareness events in partnership with the cancer alliance.

Learn more about the cancers covered

Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer. Symptoms can include a persistent cough, chest infections that keep coming back, coughing up blood, or unexplained weight loss. If caught early, treatment is more likely to be successful.
👉 More on lung cancer – NHS

Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects the large bowel and is the fourth most common cancer in the UK. Look out for persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, or abdominal discomfort. Screening is available for those aged 50 to 74.
👉 More on bowel cancer – NHS

Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. It usually develops slowly and may not cause symptoms initially. However, men may notice changes in urination or pelvic discomfort. Black men and men over 50 are at higher risk and should speak to their GP about regular checks.
👉 More on prostate cancer – NHS

Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is a less common but highly treatable cancer that mostly affects younger men. Early signs include a painless lump or swelling in the testicle. Regular self-examination is key to early detection.
👉 More on testicular cancer – NHS