Background:
Australia has some of the best cancer outcomes globally, yet inequities persist. LGBTQ+ people are more likely to be diagnosed with certain cancers, partly due to higher rates of smoking and alcohol use, and lower participation in cancer screening. Barriers accessing inclusive care contribute to delays and poorer outcomes. National and state strategies now recognise the need for targeted approaches.
Methods:
ACON and the Cancer Institute NSW established a multi-year partnership (2021–2024) to reduce cancer impacts among LGBTQ+ communities. A scoping review of peer-reviewed literature (2014–2020) confirmed targeted interventions are more acceptable and potentially more feasible. Five tailored social marketing campaigns were developed based on mixed methods formative research and evaluated by post-campaign surveys and digital analytics. Pop-up screening and information stalls were delivered at LGBTQ+ pride events.
An eLearning module, LGBTQ+ Communities and Cancer Care, was co-developed and delivered via eviQ Education. Pre- and post-surveys were completed by 100 cancer service professionals.
Results:
The partnership has:
Strengthened evidence for LGBTQ+ cancer prevention and screening (3 reports, 20 presentations).
Engaged 192,000+ people during campaigns; reached average monthly web traffic of 5,000 users in non-campaign periods.
Achieved 33% average campaign recall and improved intentions to screen, reduce smoking/alcohol, and seek health information.
Facilitated over 150 on-site breast/cervical screenings at LGBTQ+ events.
Delivered eLearning to 1,000+ professionals; 88% reported increased skills, confidence and knowledge.
Supported policy advocacy (8 submissions) and secured funding for national LGBTQ+ cancer projects.
Conclusion:
This NSW partnership demonstrates how community-led, evidence-based interventions can improve cancer outcomes for LGBTQ+ people. The model is scalable to other jurisdictions and adaptable for other priority populations.