Bridging Breast Health Gaps in the LGBTQ Community

This program is made possible by a grant from Contigo Fund, an initiative of Our Fund Foundation.

Did you know that the LGBTQ community has an increased risk of breast cancer?

Breast Health

Lesbians, bisexual women, and transgender are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer than heterosexual women. Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. Early detection of breast cancer can be achieved by knowing your risk and taking part in routine breast screening.

Are You At Risk?

• Are you a woman of 40 years or older?
• Has your mother, sister, or daughter had or currently have breast cancer?
• Have you ever undergone hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
• Are you overweight?
• Do you drink alcohol in excess?

If you answered yes to any of the following questions, you may be at risk for breast cancer.

Here are the Facts:

• Lesbians, bisexual women, and transgender are less likely to visit a doctor or nurse for routine breast cancer screenings than heterosexual women due to their low rates of health insurance, fear of discrimination, and negative experiences with healthcare providers.
• Lesbians and bisexual women are less likely to have children or have them later in life which increases their risk of breast cancer.
• Lesbians tend to have higher rates of obesity and alcohol use which may increase their risk of breast cancer.
• Transgender women and men who undergo hormone replacement therapy (HR) may be at increased risk of breast cancer.

Take Charge of Your Health!

Know your risk by learning about your family history and talking to your healthcare provider.

Find a healthcare provider that is sensitive to your needs.

Know your breasts and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

Make healthy lifestyle choices such as keeping a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption and menopausal hormone use.

Take part in routine breast screenings.

Contact us today for more information!

The “Bridging Breast Health Gaps in the LGBTQ Community” program runs on a systemic change strategy that focuses on addressing the root causes around obstacles to accessing breast health services and combating the increasing health disparities that LGBTQ individuals encounter.