South Asian Heritage Month 2026

Are you from a South Asian background and affected by cancer?  

Have you ever wished you could talk to someone who understands the cultural, family or faith-related challenges that can come with a cancer diagnosis? 

South Asian Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the history, cultures and contributions of South Asian communities in the UK. It is also an opportunity to recognise that people from South Asian communities can experience unique challenges when navigating cancer, and that these challenges can continue long after awareness campaigns and heritage celebrations have ended. 

A cancer diagnosis can affect every part of life. Alongside treatment, appointments and recovery, many people are also navigating family responsibilities, cultural expectations, faith, language barriers and conversations about health that can sometimes be difficult to have. 

While every person's experience is different, we know that some people from South Asian communities face additional challenges when seeking cancer information and support. 

Challenges can include: 

• Finding it difficult to talk openly about cancer because of stigma or cultural taboos. 

• Feeling pressure to remain positive or avoid discussing worries with family members. 

• Struggling to find cancer information in a preferred language. 

• Feeling that cancer support services do not always reflect their culture, faith or lived experiences. 

You are not alone in these challenges. Here are some helpful support options: 

Read Priyanka’s story here: How Priyanka is helping children understand cancer – and breaking taboos in South Asian communities 

Cancer Care Map: Find local support services. In some areas there are support groups dedicated to the South Asian community. 

Asian Women Cancer Group: Support and information for women, their families, carers and friends as they go through cancer journey and beyond.  

South Asian Heritage Month: South Asian Heritage Trust

The Online Community: South Asian cancer forum 

The Macmillan Online Community offers an opportunity to connect with others who may understand some of the cultural, family and faith-related experiences that can shape a cancer journey. We are keen that the community provides relevant support and a space for South Asian people connect. If you are from a South Asian background and have been affected by cancer, we would love for you to join and share your experience.  

You may like to ask questions or just connect with others going through the same thing. You could post in the South Asian cancer forum in the Identity Forum or write a blog about your cancer experience.