Abstract IA20: Cancer in Sexual and Gender Minority populations

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The LGBTQ population, also known as sexual and gender minorities (SGM) has increased risks for some cancers, not because of sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI), but due to risk behaviors more prevalent in this population. Risk factors include higher rates of obesity, smoking, and alcohol use. The conundrum of these risk behaviors is that they are likely to have developed as a result of perceptions of stigmatization, marginalization, and overt discrimination. Further, the oncology community may not be trained in the unique needs of this population and institutions may not be collecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data appropriately or at all. Methods: The presentation will focus on two areas: 1) An overview of the seven cancer sites disproportionately affecting LGBTQ populations, reviewing the current available literature on, primary prevention, secondary prevention and preclinical disease, tertiary prevention and late stage disease, clinical implications and psychosocial factors related to cancer survivorship and 2) Results from a 38 item, national survey of 500 oncologists knowledge, attitudes, and practice behaviors with LGBTQ cancer patients. Results: Anal, Breast, Cervical, Colorectal, Endometrial, Lung, and Prostate cancer disproportionately affect the LGBTQ community. 153 oncologists (37% response rate) completed the survey. Results showed low rates of knowledge about LGBTQ health; high rates of comfort and confidence in caring for LGBTQ (95%); low rates of collecting SOGI data (11.4% collect sexual orientation; ~19% collect gender identity) Conclusions: Greater acceptance of SGM in the healthcare setting is needed for disclosure to occur more routinely and health care providers to respond to SOGI disclosure in ways that address needs. A welcoming environment conducive to SOGI disclosure is a key element in improving the quality of care. The collection of SOGI and an accurate and thorough sexual history is necessary for LGBTQ patients to receive proper screening, diagnosis and treatment for their cancer healthcare needs. Equally important is ensuring healthcare providers and staff are properly educated on the increased prevalence of risk factors as well as the specific needs of the LGBTQ population in regards to cancer care. Citation Format: Gwendolyn P. Quinn, Matthew B. Schabath, Miles For Moffitt Work Group. Cancer in Sexual and Gender Minority populations. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr IA20.