Abstract PO-256: Knowledge and attitudes of a sample of Latinx LGBQ population regarding cancer screening, prevention, and barriers: An exploratory study

Abstract

Abstract Background The lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer/questioning (LGBQ) population, also referred to as sexual and gender minorities (SGM), is a medically underserved and understudied population in the United States. Literature has argued that, as of recent years, there are a limited number of early cancer detection and prevention guidelines catered specifically to LGBTQ+ community, which creates a gap in access to healthcare services for this population. Furthermore, there are potential barriers that exist for LGBT people, such as discrimination from healthcare providers and other societal constraints which could further contribute to the lack of screening for cancer. The purpose of this study is to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and individual experiences of LGBQ individuals regarding cancer prevention, screening, and treatment to develop educational material that would help cater the needs of this population Methods This study consisted of a series of structured qualitative interviews facilitated as focal groups. The interview guideline contained questions regarding the domains of knowledge, attitudes, and individuals experiences on cancer screening in SGM. The recruitment process was facilitated via online flyers in social media platforms and through local community organizations that provide services for the Puerto Rican SGM population. Participants that reached out were screened for eligibility based on age and self-identified gender and sexual orientation. The focal groups have been carried out via a video teleconferencing software to limit contact with participants considering COVID-19. The interviews have been recorded and transcribed ad-verbatim for analysis purposes. Thematic analysis with open ended coding is being used to analyze the data obtained. Results A total of 8 participants completed the informed consent and proceeded to participate in the focal groups. The cervical cancer focal group consisted of 4 participants who identified as lesbian, bisexual, and non-binary women. 2 self-identified gay men of prostate cancer focal group and the colorectal cancer focal group included 3 gay men. As analysis was carried out, the following recurring themes were identified: Treatment knowledge, Treatment limitations, General recommendations regarding Healthcare services, Social limitations for Healthcare services, Experiences on Healthcare settings. Discussion Preliminary analysis exposes participants exhibited a general lack of knowledge regarding cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer symptomatology and screening procedures. In the case of the Cervical Cancer focus group, participants agreed their general experience in healthcare settings could be improved by educating healthcare providers on being more inclusive with the LGBTQ community and adjusting the healthcare setting to be less heterocentric. The participants in the focal groups for Prostate Cancer and Colorectal Cancer, on the other hand, stated that the approach should be directed towards educating the LGTTQ+ community on cancer symptomatology and cancer screening practices. Citation Format: Gabriela López Toledo, German J. Rivera Castellar, Elmer Marrero, Marta M. Sánchez Aracil, Mirza J. Rivera Lugo. Knowledge and attitudes of a sample of Latinx LGBQ population regarding cancer screening, prevention, and barriers: An exploratory study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-256.