Sign Up for FORCE Newsletters

LGBTQIA+ and Cancer

FORCE has compiled information and resources for people who identify with the LGBTQIA+ community and who have an inherited mutation linked to cancer.
LGBTQIA+ and Cancer

People in the LGBTQIA+ community face health disparities related to cancer screening, prevention and treatment. 

For people with inherited mutations who identify as LGBTQIA+, we've compiled expert-reviewed resources to help you take steps to protect your health. Click on each topic below to learn more. If you need additional guidance, please sign up for our Peer Navigation ProgramYou are not alone.

Research Review

Article: Breast cancer risk for transgender men with inherited mutations

Summary: We review an expert viewpoint on the implications of a BRCA mutation for transgender men undergoing breast removal as part of their gender-affirming care plan.

Graphic of a doctor next to an LGBTQ flag


 

Research Review

Study : LGBTQ patients recommend improvements for their cancer care

Summary: Very little research has focused on the cancer care experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) people. This study looks at recommendations from the LGBTQ community for improving their cancer care. 

Graphic of a doctor next to an LGBTQ flag


 

Research Review

Article : Transgender peoples' perspectives of being diagnosed with gender-associated cancer

Summary: An ABC News article provides viewpoints and data that conveys the added stress experienced by transgender and gender-nonconforming people when they are diagnosed with gender-associated cancer (e.g., ovarian or prostate cancer) that does not match their gender identity. 

Research Review

Personal Story : Male transgender breast cancer patient shares his experience in NYT piece

Denise Grady’s New York Times piece presents the struggles faced by Eli Oberman, a male transgender patient who was diagnosed with breast cancer, including the difficulty of being the only male patient in gynecologist waiting rooms that are full of women. 
 

Blog

Blog: Hiding in Plain Sight: LGBTQ People and Clinical Trials

This blog, by Scout of the National LGBT Cancer Network speaks to the importance of including people from the LGBT community in clinical research studies.