For Patients & Families

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation has regularly recognized Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as a Health Equity Index Top Performing Healthcare Facility based on our approach to, and practices for, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community.

At Dana-Farber, we know that the LGBTQ+ community faces unique challenges and health disparities, and we work to provide care that addresses each person's cancer in the context of their lives.

LGBTQ+ patients are at a higher risk for certain types of cancers, including Kaposi sarcoma, cervical, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, lung, liver, anal, and some others. As one of the world's foremost cancer centers treating these types of cancer – and as a leader in providing equitable care and strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ patients – Dana-Farber is in a unique position to serve the LGBTQ+ community.

Dana-Farber provides the latest, most innovative treatment available to LGBTQ+ patients challenged with cancer, as well as compassion and support to their families and loved ones:

• Our world-renowned specialists provide comprehensive, personalized cancer care and support.
• Our clinical researchers offer unique clinical trials in the cancers to which LGBTQ+ patients are most at risk.
• Our viral immunology researchers lead the field in HIV- and AIDS-related research breakthroughs.

Dana-Farber's Commitment to LGBTQ+ Patients

Our specialists provide world-renowned, expert cancer care – including for diagnoses that disproportionately affect the LGBTQ+ community. For patients of all genders and sexualities, we are committed to providing comprehensive, personalized, and compassionate cancer care that's as unique as you are.

To support our LGBTQ+ patients and their families, we offer the following information and resources:

• Policies supporting LGBTQ+ patient care: A comprehensive list of Dana-Farber policies that deliver on our commitment to treating LGBTQ+ patients with the same high level of dignity and quality of care that all our patients deserve and receive.
• Description of Dana-Farber's LGBTQ+ community: Information about the Dana-Farber LGBTQ+ community and its advocacy for Dana-Farber patients, families, and staff.
• Online resources: A compilation of online resources focused on care and information for LGBTQ+ patients who are challenged by cancer.

For questions, concerns, or more information about patient care for the LGBTQ+ community at Dana-Farber, please contact the staff of Dana-Farber Patient/Family Relations at 617-632-3417 or email patientfamily_relations@dfci.harvard.edu. Our staff aims to provide help, sensitivity, and compassion to LGBTQ+ patients, their families, and loved ones.

Chelsea's story

I initially had some difficulty processing my lymphoma diagnosis. I had my first chemotherapy in NH, but then switched to DFCI to be closer to friends. I felt welcomed by the staff, who enjoyed the lovely formal dresses I chose to wear to help me feel pretty during such an arduous time. The acceptance and respectful treatment I received at DFCI confirmed every positive thing I'd heard about the quality of the care there.

— Chelsea