Keeping everyone well-informed with Screening the Neighbourhoods

Every year, thousands of people receive an invitation to participate in population screening for diseases such as breast or cervical cancer. However, this information does not always reach everyone, due to language barriers, differences in lived experiences or other cases. With the research project Screening the Neighbourhoods, lecturer and researcher Anita Ham, together with students, explores how women who are currently harder to reach can still gain access to clear and understandable information. 

Screening the Neighbourhoods is part of the Oncology minor and stems from a collaboration with GGD The Hague, TNO, RIVM, and the Mammarosa Foundation. Anita: “Our students conduct participatory research and go into the neighbourhoods to speak with residents and local organizations. Not to persuade them, but to ensure everyone can make an informed decision about participating in screenings.” 

Familiar in your city 

A city like The Hague requires an approach that better aligns with its diversity. “When it comes to population screening, it turns out we are not reaching certain groups effectively through standardized methods. That’s exactly where our strength as THUAS lies. Our students speak multiple languages and know the neighbourhoods where they actively inform women. This helps students look beyond standard solutions and connect research, society, and education. That’s where real impact is made.” 

Staying in the neighbourhood 

Nursing student Kemi Aniceta follows the minor and sees during her internship how significant this impact can be. “You notice that many people don’t attend screenings because they think it doesn’t apply to them. As a result, they don’t recognize early warning signs, which can lead to serious problems later on.” With Screening the Neighbourhoods, THUAS implements this approach in a structural way. Anita: “By staying present in The Hague’s neighbourhoods, we hear what is going on. Only then can we build meaningful connections and ensure that everyone is well-informed.”