In June, Professor Margo Turnbull, Assistant Professor and Dr Madhu Neupane Bastola, Postdoctoral Fellow of our Department, published an article in The Conversation, titled "Words matter to people living with cancer. Here's how verbal microagressions affect their mental state." The article examines how subtle, often unintentional remarks—such as dismissive comments or assumptions about a cancer patient’s experience—can erode confidence, reinforce stigma, and undermine mental well-being.
Drawing on interviews with cancer patients, it highlights the emotional toll of these verbal microaggressions and suggests strategies like fostering supportive communities and using empathetic language to mitigate their impact.
Our Department would also like to congratulate Dr Bastola for delivering a compelling presentation on this subject. Held on 23 July 2025, the presentation engaged an international audience, including Consulate Generals from France, Sweden, Poland, Ireland, Belgium, and the Philippines, as well as the Councillor of the European Union Office of Hong Kong and Macau. Representatives from NGOs such as FilMCaSS, Bethune House, and Mission for Migrant Workers expressed appreciation for Dr Bastola’s insightful findings, paving the way for future collaborations.
Discover the full article: click here
Join us in celebrating Prof. Turnbull and Dr Bastola’s contributions to advancing socially impactful research that amplifies the voices of marginalised communities.
