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Other Health Issues

We partner with providers and businesses to offer classes, workshops and health and wellness seminars that address health disparities that affect our communities.

We also provide referrals and resources to agencies that provide LGBTQ+ affirming care. 

Anal health

Gay and bisexual men are at 35 times greater risk for anal cancers than the general public. That risk factor increases to as much as 115 times more at risk for gay and bisexual men who are HIV positive. 

We can provide linkage for screenings and treatments for individuals at risk of developing anal cancer or who have other common complaints such as warts, itching and/or discharge. There aren't always warning signs or symptoms of disease, so it's important to talk to a knowledgeable provider who can assess your risk factors and overall health. Contact us at 716-852-7743 and our Young Mens Wellness Specialist who can link you to care. 

BREAST + CHEST HEALTH

Anyone with breast or chest tissue may be susceptible to cancer. Certain groups, however – women, particularly LBTQ women and women of color – may be at increased risk, due in part to lower rates of routine mammograms, clinical breast exams and other preventive screenings – or accessing them at later stages when cancerous cells may have progressed. Lack of access to insurance, stigma and factors such as overall higher rates of obesity, alcohol and tobacco use and lower rates of child bearing also put an undue burden on these communities.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure has developed a series of recommendations for breast and chest cancer screening based on four key elements:
  • Know your risk: if you can, learn about your family’s health history and talk to a provider about your personal risk of breast cancer – based on who YOU are. Cancer screening recommendations can be individualized.
  • Get screened: talk with your provider about which screening tests are right for you if you are at a higher risk; have a clinical exam at least every three years starting at age twenty and every year starting at age forty; have a mammogram every year starting at age forty if you are at average risk.
  • Know what is normal for you, and see your health care provider if you notice any of these breast changes: lump, a hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area; swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast; change in the size or shape of the breast; dimpling or puckering of the skin; itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple; pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast; nipple discharge that starts suddenly; or new pain in one spot that doesn’t go away
  • Exercise self-love and self-care: maintain a healthy weight, incorporate exercise and limit alcohol and tobacco use.
Our staff work can provide linkage to coverage and LGBTQ+ affirming cancer screening services. We’re also fortunate enough to partner with some fantastic organizations in and around Western New York, such as Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Susan G. Komen for the Cure, in our continuing effort to provide sensitive, culturally competent breast/chest cancer services to lesbians, bisexual women, transgender and gender-nonconforming people.
In addition, the Affordable Care Act requires that certain prevention-related health care services – including mammograms, as well as annual pap smears, more are provided at no cost. If you’re uninsured, we can link you with an enrollment specialist to see what you may qualify for. This is a free service available to patients and non-patients alike.