Persistent disparities found in preventive cancer care for sexual and gender minority populations

New research has uncovered persistent disparities in preventive cancer care across different sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) populations. The study published by Wiley online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, found particular concern for cervical and breast cancer screening.

To assess SOGI differences in cancer screening and prevalence, investigators analyzed data from the 2018–2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a nationally representative annual telephone survey of US adults.

Among 663,924 respondents who were eligible for different cancer screening tests, sexual orientation minority (such as gay and bisexual) women were 8% and 16% less likely to receive screening tests for cervical cancer and breast cancer, respectively, compared with heterosexual women. In men, sexual orientation minorities had a 10% higher colorectal cancer screening rate that heterosexual men. Compared with cisgender status, gender identity minority (such as transgender) status was associated with a 42% and 76% lower likelihood of cervical cancer and breast cancer screening, respectively, with no differences for colorectal cancer screening. SOGI was not associated with meaningful differences in cancer prevalence.

The current data highlight how sexual and gender minority populations, particularly transgender individuals, face significant disparities in accessing breast and cervical cancer screenings. The study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions, including improved training for providers and policy reform, to bridge these gaps and ensure equitable, inclusive care."

Timothy M. Pawlik, MD, MPH, PhD, senior author, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center