LGBTQ+ Health Equity: Lessons from a Three-Time Survivor
Expert Perspectives · Lyn Brook · 2026-06-22
Health equity remains a critical priority in oncology, particularly for historically underserved populations such as the LGBTQ+ community. In recognition of Pride Month, Steve Drayton—a three-time cancer survivor, long-term HIV survivor, and dedicated LGBTQ+ advocate—shares his personal journey and offers important insights into disparities in care, the role of community advocacy, and opportunities for clinicians to improve inclusive practices.
A Complex Clinical Journey: Cancer Survivorship and HIV
Mr. Drayton’s experience reflects the intersection of multiple chronic and life-threatening conditions, including HIV and cancer. Diagnosed with HIV in 1994, he endured years of difficult treatment during an era when therapeutic options were limited. “The medicines were horrible to take. I lost most of my body weight. My immune system was gone,” he recalled. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to survive, emphasizing, “I didn’t want to be a statistic.”
His later cancer diagnosis in 2016 came as an unexpected and destabilizing event. Although he was actively engaged in preventive health behaviors, including participation in an American Cancer Society (ACS) cycling fundraiser, he began to notice unusual symptoms that prompted further evaluation. “It was a different pain that I never had,” he said, ultimately leading him to seek screening.
This experience underscores the importance of symptom awareness and timely evaluation, even among individuals who are otherwise engaged in preventive health practices.
Disparities in Care Delivery
A defining moment in Mr. Drayton’s cancer journey was the delay in diagnosis caused by inadequate initial care. During his first colonoscopy, a biopsy was not performed, preventing confirmation of malignancy. He later reflected that this may have been influenced by bias related to his sexual orientation and HIV status. “I couldn’t even get a diagnosis,” he said, describing the need to seek out another provider who would perform the appropriate diagnostic procedure.
This experience highlights a critical issue in healthcare delivery: disparities in diagnostic evaluation can delay treatment and adversely affect outcomes. For oncology professionals, it reinforces the need for standardized, unbiased clinical decision making and adherence to evidence-based protocols regardless of patient identity.
Drayton’s broader experiences within the healthcare system further illustrate these disparities. He described being turned away by multiple dental providers after disclosing his HIV status. “I was turned away by at least six dentists,” he noted, reflecting stigma that, while improved over time, persists.
The Role of Advocacy and Community Engagement
Mr. Drayton’s journey has been shaped not only by personal resilience but also by a deep commitment to advocacy. Following the loss of a close friend to HIV, he made a personal commitment to raise awareness and promote prevention. “I promised him that I would do more to raise awareness and encourage others,” he said.
His involvement with organizations such as the American Cancer Society provided both education and a framework for engagement. Participation in ACS cycling events helped him connect with resources and build community, while also reinforcing the importance of prevention, screening, and survivorship support.
Today, his advocacy extends to community-based initiatives that promote health equity for LGBTQ+ individuals. He highlighted the development of local LGBTQ+ health fairs as an example of grassroots efforts to improve access to inclusive care. “We’re looking out for each other’s health, and I think that’s vital,” he said.
Creating Inclusive and Equitable Care Environments
For clinicians, Mr. Drayton’s experiences offer important lessons in delivering equitable care. He emphasized that many barriers faced by LGBTQ+ patients are not due to a lack of clinical knowledge, but rather discomfort, bias, or lack of awareness among providers.
“There are easy ways to prevent the transfer of any bodily fluid during a procedure,” he noted, underscoring that appropriate infection control practices are well established and should not be a barrier to care. His comments highlight the importance of provider education—not only in clinical skills, but also in cultural competency and inclusive communication.
He also stressed the importance of patient-centered dialogue. Patients should feel comfortable disclosing relevant aspects of their identity and behavior, including sexual activity, to ensure appropriate risk assessment and preventive care. At the same time, clinicians must foster an environment of trust where such disclosures are met with respect and without judgment.
Empowering Patients Through Awareness and Self-Advocacy
In addition to clinician-focused recommendations, Mr. Drayton emphasized the importance of patient empowerment. He encouraged individuals to actively seek out inclusive providers and leverage available resources, including social networks and community groups, to identify affirming care environments.
“Do your research, find a queer-friendly provider,” he advised, noting that access to information has improved significantly through online platforms and community engagement. He also stressed the importance of transparency with healthcare providers to ensure appropriate screening, prevention, and treatment strategies.
His perspective reinforces the role of patient education and self-advocacy as key components of improving outcomes, particularly in populations that have historically faced barriers to care.
Building a More Inclusive Oncology Landscape
Mr. Drayton’s story reflects both progress and ongoing challenges in achieving health equity for LGBTQ+ individuals. While advancements in HIV treatment and increasing awareness of inclusive care have improved outcomes, disparities in access, diagnosis, and provider attitudes persist.
His message for Pride Month is one of action and community engagement. He encourages individuals and organizations to take initiative in building supportive environments, even starting small if necessary. “If the community doesn’t exist in your city, start something,” he encourages.
For oncology professionals and the broader multidisciplinary care team, his experience serves as a reminder that high-quality care extends beyond clinical expertise. It requires cultural competence, equitable practices, and a commitment to addressing the unique needs of diverse patient populations.
Key Takeaways
LGBTQ+ patients may face barriers to diagnosis and care, impacting outcomes.
Bias and stigma can contribute to delays in appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Inclusive, culturally competent care is essential for improving health equity.
Community advocacy and patient empowerment play a critical role in care access.
Clinicians should foster trust, encourage open dialogue, and follow evidence-based practices.
About Steve Drayton
Steve Drayton is a three-time cancer survivor, long-term HIV survivor, and LGBTQ+ health advocate based in Lexington, Kentucky. He is actively involved in community outreach and education initiatives focused on improving health equity, awareness, and access to inclusive care for LGBTQ+ individuals.