Facing Cancer with Pride: The Unique Challenges of LGBTQ+ Communities in Canada
Cancer is a life-altering diagnosis for anyone—but for members of Canada’s LGBTQ+ communities, the journey through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship often comes with additional layers of complexity, stigma, and systemic barriers.
A Hidden Population in Cancer Care
Roughly 1 million people in Canada identify as part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, representing about 4% of the population. (1)
. Yet, despite this significant number, there is a glaring lack of data on cancer incidence, outcomes, and survivorship within these communities. National cancer registries and health surveys often fail to collect information on sexual orientation and gender identity, rendering LGBTQ+ individuals statistically invisible in cancer research (2)
This invisibility has real consequences. Without data, it’s difficult to design targeted prevention programs, allocate resources effectively, or understand the full scope of health disparities affecting LGBTQ+ people.
Unique Risk Factors and Health Disparities
While there are no biological differences that predispose LGBTQ+ individuals to cancer, social determinants of health play a significant role. Studies suggest that LGBTQ+ people are more likely to experience:
Mental health challenges stemming from discrimination, stigma, and minority stress.
Delayed or avoided medical care due to past negative experiences with healthcare providers (2)
For example, lesbian and bisexual women may be at increased risk for breast cancer due to lower rates of childbirth and higher rates of alcohol use. Transgender individuals may face unique risks related to hormone therapy or lack of access to gender-affirming care.
Barriers to Inclusive Care
One of the most pressing challenges is the lack of culturally competent care. Many LGBTQ+ patients report feeling misunderstood, judged, or dismissed by healthcare providers. Trans and non-binary individuals, in particular, often face misgendering, invasive questioning, or outright denial of care (1).
These experiences can lead to:
Late-stage diagnoses, as individuals delay screenings or treatment.
Poorer treatment outcomes, due to lack of trust or communication with providers.
Isolation during treatment, especially for those estranged from family or lacking support networks.
Toward Equity in Cancer Care
The Canadian Cancer Society has acknowledged these disparities and is working to improve access to inclusive information, support services, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ communities (1)
. However, more systemic change is needed.
Key steps include:
Collecting inclusive health data to better understand cancer trends in LGBTQ+ populations.
Training healthcare providers in LGBTQ+ cultural competency.
Funding research that explores the intersection of cancer and sexual/gender identity.
Creating safe, affirming spaces in cancer care settings.
Conclusion: Visibility Saves Lives
Cancer doesn’t discriminate—but healthcare systems sometimes do. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, Canada can move closer to a future where everyone receives the care, dignity, and support they deserve—regardless of who they are or who they love.
(1) 2SLGBTQI+ communities - Canadian Cancer Societycancer.ca(2)The LGBT Community’s Disproportionate Cancer Burdencancer-network.org