Abstract C092: Understanding the cancer needs of LGBTQ Latinx communities

Abstract

Abstract Research targeting the needs of the LGBTQ community and their cancer prevention and screening behaviors is sparse, specifically the LGBTQ Latinx community. According to the National LGBT Cancer Network, the LGBT community is at a higher risk for cervical and oral cancers and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors contributing to these outcomes. Understanding the community’s knowledge and behavior, as well as their interactions with primary care providers (PCP’s), can help further the focus and tailor culturally appropriate educational programs and materials. The needs assessment was conducted in 2018 to better understand the LGBTQ Latinx community’s experience with cancer screening, prevention and risk reduction strategies. The purpose of this first step was to help guide outreach and education efforts to best meet the needs of this often-underrepresented community. The needs assessment survey was conducted using REDCap, a secure web based application designed for research. Respondents were recruited at outreach events throughout Southern California, and with the help of partnering organizations who serve the LGBTQ Latinx community. Upon completion of the survey, respondents were entered into a raffle to win a $50 gift card. A total of 176 respondents have completed the survey thus far. Most (74%) were Latinx, between the ages of 21-39 (57%), identified as cisgender (82%), identified as gay (40%) or queer (28%). Most had shared their gender identity or sexual orientation with all their providers (44%) but respondents who identified as bisexual were less likely to share that information (X2=18.1; p<0.000). Most respondents (73%) have been afraid to share their gender identity and/or sexual orientation with a healthcare provider. Those who identified as queer were more likely to be afraid to share their sexual orientation (X2=12.1 p<0.035). Most (71%) prefer to be seen by an LGBTQ-trained health provider. Most (91%) have never received LGBTQ-tailored cancer information. Of those between the ages 21-29, 60% have not had a Pap test in the last 3 years. Most (53%) have not received the HPV vaccine. Of those eligible, 50% have not had a mammogram in the last 2 years and a third are overdue for their routine colonoscopy. Almost 70% self-report binge-drinking within the last year, with gay men been being more likely to binge drink (X2=15.8; p<0.000). The smoking rate (20%) was almost twice the smoking rate in California (11%). Most (40%) report being exposed to environmental (or secondhand) tobacco smoke, with lesbian women being more likely to report exposure (X2=4.9; p<0.027). Most (78%) practice unprotected sex, with gay men being more likely to report (X2=6.3; p<0.012). Findings from this survey suggest that there is a critical need to educate the LGBTQ Latinx community, with LGBTQ-tailored information regarding cancer screening and prevention. It also suggests an urgent need to train healthcare providers on how to make their practice more culturally competent, safe, and welcoming for LGBTQ Latinx communities. Citation Format: Mayra Serrano, Jenifer Metz, Alejandro Fernandez, Eli Mendelson, Grizell Alvarado, Mireya Munoz, Erika Reyes, Rosario Quintanilla, Dayana Pelayo, Zul Surani. Understanding the cancer needs of LGBTQ Latinx communities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Twelfth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2019 Sep 20-23; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2020;29(6 Suppl_2):Abstract nr C092.