Published on 19 March 2026
A campaign by Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance raising awareness of anal cancer for people living with HIV in Black communities has been shortlisted for a national award.
The ‘Break The Taboo: HIV and Anal Health’ campaign was designed and run with support of BHA For Equality – an organisation which challenges health and social care inequalities – and creative agency Intent Health.
It focused on the Black communities in Cheshire and Merseyside with a bespoke webpage and podcast giving information on anal cancer for people living with HIV, which were promoted in targeted social media messaging.
The campaign has now been shortlisted as one of just two finalists in the Initiative With Impact category of the annual national Black Professionals in Life Sciences (BPLS) Inspire Awards.
Eluned Hughes, the Cancer Alliance's Campaigns Development Manager, said: “Although anal cancer is rare, people living with HIV tend to be diagnosed at a younger age and when their cancer is more advanced.
“Through real stories and lived experience, the campaign explores the importance of symptom awareness, early diagnosis, and breaking down the stigma that often keeps people from seeking support.
“We are really pleased the campaign resonated so well with Black communities in our population and has gone on to feature in the national spotlight with these awards. We are grateful for the support from BHA For Equity and the expertise of Intent Health in executing this campaign.”
The award winners will be announced at the BPLS Annual Summit in London on March 26th.