Cancer Screening Support for the LGBTQ+ Community

Dear Editor,

It’s a fact — cancer screening saves lives. It’s also a fact that many people in the LGBTQ+ community face barriers to cancer screening, such as lack of health insurance and access to inclusive health care.

Oswego County Opportunities, Inc (OCO) Cancer Services Program (CSP) of the North Country is proud to be a safe and welcoming space for all. Cancer can affect anybody and ANY BODY. It does not discriminate, and health care shouldn’t either. Screenings for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer save lives through early detection, but it only works if people feel safe enough to access them. Our program provides screening based on your individual health needs – not assumptions about your body or your identity. We offer free breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening for people aged 40+ who do not have insurance, and we work with health care providers who are committed to inclusive care.

Is cancer screening really that important? Yes! LGBTQ+ individuals are at higher risk for certain cancers and are less likely to receive recommended screenings that can prevent cancer or find it early. Cervical and colorectal cancer can be prevented through screening. Screening can find growths or cells that can turn into cancer and remove them before they become cancer. Screening tests can also find breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer early when treatment may work best.

Your health is important to us. YOU are important to us! Call us at 315-592-0830 to find out more about how our program can support you.

*Supported with funds from the State of New York

Carolyn Handville

Coordinator

CSP of the North Country

Oswego County Opportunities, Inc.

www.Facebook.com/oco.free.cancer.screenings

315-592-0830