"As members of two medically underserved populations, African-American lesbians may face double jeopardy in terms of mortality and morbidity from cancer and other diseases," says Fields. "But because Black women who partner with women have not been well represented in health studies, very little is known about our health status and health needs. Our hope is that the Spirit Study will help bridge the information gap preventing Black lesbians from receiving the health services they need and deserve."

Spirit Study outreach is being conducted throughout the country through community partners, including African-American and LGBT publications, newsletters, social groups, sports teams, churches, and internet sites, as well as community health centers, Pride events, and projects.

Among the organizations partnering on the Spirit Study are the Zuna Institute, United Lesbians of African Heritage (ULOAH), Unity Fellowship Church, Women in the Life, National Black Lesbian and Gay Lesbian Leadership Forum, Sophisticated Lady Productions, and Venus Magazine. The study is being guided by a Scientific Advisory Committee made up of noted African-American lesbian and allied health researchers, clinicians, and educators, including Former Assistant Surgeon General Dr. Marilyn Gaston, MD; Lucille Adams-Campbell, MD, Director Howard University Cancer Center; Alicia Matthews, PhD, Director, Psychosocial Oncology Program, University of Chicago; Lisa Bowleg, PhD, Assistant Professor Department of Psychology University of Rhode Island; Nicole Cozier Boyd, MBA/MS, Public Education Director Ovarian Cancer National Alliance; and Joyce Hunter, DSW, Director of Community Liaison Programs, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute.

This innovative research project is partially supported by a grant from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, which is funding the breast health segment of the study. "It is one of the Komen Foundation's highest priorities to empower all women in the fight against cancer by providing them with the resources and information they need to make educated decisions about their health," says Komen's Director of Public Policy, Diane Balma.

Founded in 1990, the Mautner Project is the national lesbian health organization. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of women who partner with women and their families through direct services, education, research, and advocacy.

The Spirit Study is completely confidential. Participants may complete the survey at their convenience online at www.spiritstudy.org or can request copies by phone/TTY (202-332-5536), email (mautner@mautnerproject.org), or postal mail (Spirit Study, 1707 L Street NW, Suite 230, Washington, DC 20036). The Mautner Project includes a postage-paid return envelope with every survey requested.