49% of invited Black African women attend breast screening appointments, versus 67% of White women and 63% of Black Caribbean women.
2x more – Black women are up to 2× more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage cancers (breast, ovarian, uterine, lung, colon) than White British women – delaying successful treatment
25% of Black African women (and 22% of Black Caribbean women) are diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 breast cancer; nearly double the 13% rate seen in White women.
African women in England face an 85% greater likelihood of being diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer than their white counterparts.
Community Cancer Stories
Cancer & Black Women At A Glance
Black women in the UK face later diagnoses, more aggressive cancer types, and lower screening attendance, which together contribute to higher mortality rates.
Alarming Statistics
- Black African women are 71% more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer compared to White women.
- Black women overall are up to twice as likely to be diagnosed at Stage 3 or 4.
- Black women in the UK are less likely to attend screenings, presenting a barrier to early detection.
Projects
Who We Are
Organisation
Touchy-Feely is a registered Community Interest Company (no. 16602451), built on the belief that no Black woman should navigate cancer alone and that spotlighting lived experiences can revolutionise the way Black women are depicted in and around cancer.
Our Mission
We are a passionate community committed to education, support, storytelling, and holistic healing for women across all cancer types, with a focus on those from underrepresented ethnic groups. Our work amplifies voices, advocates for accurate representation, and creates culturally competent resources that address real needs. Through rehabilitation, restoration, and shared stories, we foster spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported, not just in survival, but in living fully during and beyond diagnosis.
Testimonials
– Dr. D Abiola
Re:Body was one of the most refreshing and impactful events I've been involved in, in a while. Incorporating wellness techniques like breath work and Pilates alongside health education and lived experiences is the holistic space modern healthcare is crying out for.
– Janet
Having a community where women’s health and cancer is at the forefront is extremely important. I’m so thankful that this space was created for women like me, thank you Touchy-Feely!
– Hamida
I can’t explain how beneficial this event was. To be in a space specially curated for us, where I could learn, listen, and ask questions without any fear of judgement. Cancer has touched my life so closely my best friend and then my cousin were both diagnosed with breast cancer one after the other. That period was extremely heart breaking and it made me realise that this disease can happen to anyone. I’m so grateful to have had this experience.
– Toye
From the moment I stepped in, seeing the sign, to the dining table and Pilates set up, I was beaming with excitement. This wasn’t just an event for me it was a chance for me to choose myself over anything else that I had on my calendar that day. And I’m so happy and grateful that I didn’t miss out on putting my well being first.
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Your financial contributions help us fund essential programmes, research, and outreach efforts to provide education and support to young women affected by cancer.
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