LGBTQ+ Cancer Care

LGBTQ+ individuals with a cancer diagnosis have unique needs that deserve compassionate, inclusive, and expert care in a safe and affirming environment.

MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is dedicated to providing comprehensive oncology services tailored to the diverse experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and gender-diverse individuals. From cancer screenings and diagnosis to treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and survivorship support, our program ensures respectful, individualized care.

MD Anderson at Cooper has earned the Gold Status distinction from the The Cancer Network, a national organization that connects LGBTQ+ people with welcoming health care professionals, in recognition of our strong commitment to inclusive, affirming cancer care. This designation reflects the center’s efforts to create a safe, welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ patients by completing cultural humility training, adopting inclusive policies, and prioritizing equitable care at every step of the cancer journey.

Whether you are navigating cancer care alongside other treatments, need guidance on fertility preservation, or seek supportive counseling services, our team is committed to meeting your medical and emotional needs with cultural humility and clinical excellence.

Facing Cancer Risks: LGBTQ+ Health Inequities You Should Know

Cancer doesn’t discriminate, but LGBTQ+ individuals may face challenges gaining access to prevention, screening, and treatment. 

For members of the LGBTQ+ community, long-standing disparities in health care access, provider bias, and lack of inclusive education contribute to differences in cancer outcomes.

For example, some studies suggest that lesbian and bisexual women are less likely to receive routine cancer screenings like mammograms and Pap tests—leading to later-stage diagnoses and fewer preventive opportunities. This gap in care contributes to a higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to heterosexual women and, in some cases, higher recurrence rates.

Gay and bisexual men also face elevated cancer risks. They are more likely to develop skin cancer than their heterosexual peers, and anal cancer rates remain disproportionately high among gay and bisexual men. Additionally, for gay men diagnosed with prostate cancer, the journey through treatment often brings unique sexual and social challenges.