Introducing our Prostate Cancer Buddy Scheme

UCLH has launched a new initiative to provide tailored support for Black African and African Caribbean prostate cancer patients.

Black African and African Caribbean men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer as men from other ethnic backgrounds. The Buddy Scheme pairs men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer with trained ‘buddies’ who understand the cultural nuances that may act as barriers to treatment. Our ‘buddies’ encourage men from these groups to access PSA diagnostic tests, engage with early intervention, and offer personalised guidance, both in and out of a clinical setting.

Adegboyeya Balogun, one of UCLH’s first trained ‘buddies’, has supported 26 patients since January. Based at Westmoreland Street, Ade's role as a ‘buddy’ means he can take time to address any concerns about treatments and side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and urinary continence. He can direct men towards reliable information and specialist resources, allowing them to make informed decisions about their care. 

Ade said: "I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to help reduce the stigma around the testing and treatment of prostate cancer and to encourage men at higher risk to get tested early. Early detection is so important and saves lives.” 

Although only recently launched, the Buddy Scheme has already received recognition; winning Best Project Abstract at the Festival of Excellence conference earlier this year. Interactions with our buddies provide an unparalleled opportunity to gain insight into ways in which the healthcare system can better support these patients to engage with treatment. 

This project is led by a multidisciplinary team at UCLH, in collaboration with the Institute of Health and Social Care at London South Bank University. 

Get in touch with the service on 07974372039 or by emailing uclh.prostatecancerbuddy@nhs.net.