A new campaign is encouraging LGBTQ+ people in Calderdale and Kirklees to check their bodies attend cancer screening appointments and seek medical advice when something does not feel right.
Queer Bits was developed by Caroline “Caz” Morreale from Brunswick, following her own experience of breast cancer and the barriers she has encountered as a lesbian accessing healthcare.
The campaign provides clear and inclusive information about breast, chest, cervical, testicular, prostate and anal cancers. It aims to challenge misconceptions, encourage potentially life-saving conversations and help LGBTQ+ people feel more confident accessing healthcare.
Recent research has brought renewed attention to gaps in cancer risk assessment and early detection. The BBC recently reported that current NHS checks may miss many women under 50 who have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. The findings reinforce the importance of understanding individual risk, knowing what is normal for your body and seeking advice about any changes.
LGBTQ+ people can face additional barriers to cancer screening and healthcare. These include discrimination, stigma, gender dysphoria, myths and misconceptions, and the need to repeatedly explain their identity during appointments.
Transgender and non-binary people can face further practical barriers. Changing the gender marker on an NHS record can affect which automatic screening invitations someone receives. People may therefore need to speak to their GP about the screening programmes that are appropriate for their bodies.
Queer Bits forms part of Well Proud, a range of LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing initiatives led by Brunswick across Calderdale and Kirklees. Well Proud brings together campaigns and services covering cancer awareness, mental health, sexual health, substance use, smoking and domestic abuse.
Queer Bits has also received the Pride in Diversity Inclusive Healthcare Initiative Award in recognition of its accessible and community-focused approach.
