Cancer in Sexual and Gender Minority Patients: Are We Addressing Their Needs?

Abstract

Purpose of Review

To describe the current literature regarding the cancer care of sexual and gender minority patients and to identify significant knowledge gaps that hinder our understanding of the unique needs of sexual and gender minority patients with cancer.

Recent Findings

Sexual and gender minorities suffer from cancer-related disparities, including lower rates of cancer screening, higher incidence of certain cancers, and higher cancer mortality rates. Sexual side effects, depression, and social isolation are especially common among sexual minority individuals with cancer. While the aforementioned disparities are concerning, the cancer-specific needs of sexual and gender minorities remain understudied. Population-based, prospective studies evaluating cancer-specific risks, mortality, and survivorship issues facing gender and sexual minorities are lacking.

Summary

There is a paucity of literature guiding the cancer care of sexual and gender minority patients. Areas that require further study include epidemiologic evaluations, cancer screening recommendations, and cancer treatment and survivorship.