National LGBT Cancer Network: Introducing Michael G. Bare, a one-of-a-kind Summit, and upcoming Collaborations.

Hello! My name is Michael, and I am Program Coordinator with the National LGBT Cancer Network,  and work with Liz Margolies. The National LGBT Cancer Network works to improve the lives of LGBT cancer survivors and those at risk by educating the LGBT community about our increased cancer risks and the importance of screening and early detection; training health care providers to offer more culturally-competent, safe and welcoming care; and advocating for LGBT survivors in mainstream cancer organizations, the media and research. On our website you will also find cancer information, be able to create a personal cancer risk report, find LGBT friendly screening facilities and sign up for electronic reminders. We will be working with the Network for LGBT Health Equity to expand programming such as sharing current information, research, and policy about cancer in the LGBT communities, providing outreach, developing a Best Practices in LGBT Cancer document, develop and distribute state report cards on LGBT cancer services, expand our Take Care of That Body program, and developing collaborations to disseminate all these endeavors through social and traditional media networks. You can also keep up with us on our Facebook page for news and events related to LGBT cancer and relevant health issues.

In January the Network for LGBT Health Equity, the National LGBT Cancer Network, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Callen Lorde co-hosted a 2 day summit that brought over 60 experts (ranging from researchers, clinicians, policy makers, and those involved in LGBT cancer programs, to survivors and advocates) to discuss gaps, needs and action steps to improve issues across the cancer continuum for LGBT peoples; including cancer screening, treatment, outcomes, care and survivorship, alongside many other issues. From this work, we are in the process of writing an action plan for which we are very excited, and hopeful to see ways in which this will influence systemic changes to address the specific needs of cancer in LGBT communities. Following this summit we hosted a one-day educational conference for doctors, nurses and allied health professional to learn from the experts about the cancer disparities and needs of LGBT peoples. At this event we had over 60 attendees. These events are just the tip of the iceberg as to where we are headed!

I am excited to say that I will be blogging on topics related to cancer and other LGBT health issues for the Network for LGBT Health Equity. So look out for more to come!