Sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) significantly influence access to preventive cancer screenings in the United States, with transgender and sexual minority populations facing measurable disparities. A study published in the journal CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, found that gender identity minority individuals are 76% less likely to receive breast cancer screenings and 42% less likely to undergo cervical cancer screenings compared to cisgender status.
How Do Cancer Screening Rates Differ by Identity?
Researchers analyzed data from the 2018–2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a nationally representative annual telephone survey of US adults, to track screening behaviors among 663,924 eligible adults. The findings reveal a divide in preventive care uptake across various demographic groups.
For sexual orientation minorities, the data shows mixed results. Women who identify as gay or bisexual are 16% less likely to receive breast cancer screenings and 8% less likely to receive cervical cancer screenings than heterosexual women. Conversely, men in sexual orientation minority groups show a 10% higher rate of colorectal cancer screening compared to heterosexual men.
The disparities are more pronounced for gender identity minorities. According to the study, gender identity minority status was associated with a 76% lower likelihood of breast cancer screening and a 42% lower likelihood of cervical cancer screening, with no differences for colorectal cancer screening. Notably, the study found no meaningful differences in cancer prevalence based on SOGI.
Why Does the Medical Community Call for Policy Reform?
Senior author Timothy M. Pawlik, MD, MPH, PhD, of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center states that the current data highlights an urgent need for targeted interventions, including improved training for providers and policy reform. The research emphasizes the need to bridge these gaps and ensure equitable, inclusive care.
Pro Tip: Navigating Preventive Screenings
If you are a member of an LGBTQ+ community, don’t hesitate to ask your primary care provider about age-appropriate screening guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cancer rates higher in sexual and gender minority populations?
No. According to the study published in CANCER, SOGI was not associated with meaningful differences in cancer prevalence.
Which groups face the largest screening gaps?
The study identified that gender identity minority status was associated with a 76% lower likelihood of breast cancer screening and a 42% lower likelihood of cervical cancer screening.
What interventions are recommended to fix these disparities?
Timothy M. Pawlik, MD, MPH, PhD, emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, specifically improved training for providers and policy reform to ensure equitable, inclusive care.
Where can I find more information on this study?
A free abstract of the research is available via the CANCER Newsroom.
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