About

The national LGBT Cancer Project and Out With Cancer, constitute the first national LGBT cancer nonprofit organization in the United States.

LGBT Cancer Project and Out With Cancer, work to improve the lives of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual people diagnosed with cancer by:

• Conducting conferences for LGBT people, caregivers and clinicians about the cancer risks and survivor experiences of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people.
• Increasing awareness of LGBT cancer issues and survivor experiences.
• Developing an LGBT cancer survivor community through internet and in-person networks and support groups.
• Developing research on LGBT cancer surveillance, treatment and psycho-social needs.
• Advocacy of  LGBT cancer survivors issues.
• Developing and distributing LGBT cancer survivor information in community and clinical settings.
• Informing clinicians about the unique needs of LGBT people diagnosed with cancer.

Our Mission

To raise awareness and diminish the threat of cancer in the LGBT community, worldwide.

The LGBT Cancer Project as part of  Out With Cancer  is the first  nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem in the LGBT community. Out With Cancer works to prevent cancer and diminish suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.

MISSION

Out With Cancer is the first national organization committed to advancing the health and quality of life for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people diagnosed with cancer. Our mission is:

1. to provide culturally-sensitive support services to LGBT people with cancer and their loved ones,
2. to break down the barriers to quality health care by educating medical and psychosocial providers on the special needs of this population,
3. to advocate for research on the cancer risks and treatment of LGBT people, as well as inclusion of LGBT subjects in national studies and surveys.

PROBLEM

The common cancer needs and experiences of LGBT people suggest that one unified comprehensive program will result in fewer gaps in service and greater potential for public advocacy.

1. As a group, gay men, lesbians and gender-nonconforming people engage in many of the same stress-related high-risk behaviors, e.g., smoking and alcohol use.

2. LGBT people often delay or avoid health screenings, resulting in cancers being detected at a later stage when they are more difficult to treat.

3. Once diagnosed with cancer, LGBT people experience challenges comparable with being “out” to their providers and receive little information about how cancer may impact their unique sexuality and relationships.

SOLUTION

1. Develop and conduct LGBT cancer support groups, caregiver groups and bereavement groups nationwide, through strategic partnerships with community health centers, hospitals and clinicians.

2. Develop and promote a comprehensive multi-lingual website,

a. Providing information and resources about cancer risks and services for survivors and caregivers,

b. Online training for oncology professionals on culturally-competent care for LGBT patients,

c. Access to current research on cancer and LGBT people.

3. Develop and present lectures and training at hospitals, social service organizations and oncology conferences.

4. Promote inclusion of LGBT people in clinical trials and research.

5. Increase awareness of LGBT risks and cancer needs through publications in professional journals and popular media.

Information provided on www.lgbtcancer.com is meant to complement and not replace any advice or information from a health care professional.