Ahead of Pride Month, a new report has highlighted increased cancer risk for those who identify as LGBTQ+ as researchers say that LBGTQ+ people may be more likely to smoke, drink alcohol or be living with obesity — all linked to cancer — and that they also may be more likely to avoid going to the doctor for fear of discrimination, which could cause delays in cancer diagnosis.
In an interview with ABC News, the chief scientific officer for the American Cancer Society Dr. William Dahut, also an experienced clinician-researcher in the field of prostate cancer, said that “we are very aware particularly in this population of a hesitancy about receiving healthcare. Because of biases, because of the lack of [physician] familiarity… we were concerned outcomes could be worse.”
The comprehensive analysis was released Friday by the American Cancer Society, a nonprofit organization focused on ending cancer for all people, and it is the first to provide national data on behavioral risk factors, cancer diagnoses and screening in this population.
Preventative cancer screening and vaccination rates in LGBTQ+ individuals were similar to heterosexual peers, except for lower cervical and colorectal cancer screening among transgender men.
“That was a little bit of positive news,” Dahut commented.
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However, more than 1 million LGBTQ+ people are estimated to be living with cancer, although the research so far has been limited. The new report summarizes data collected from three major national surveys — the National Health Interview Survey, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and National Youth Tobacco Survey — to estimate risk factors and cancer incidence among those who identify as LGBTQ+.
The authors highlight policies in nine states where it is legal for medical professionals to refuse care to LGBTQ+ patients, covering an estimated 20% of the LGBTQ+ population.
Researchers said that doctors and nurses should be educated specifically on how to provide loving and inclusive care to LGBTQ+ people.
Sarah Danziger, M.D. is an Internal Medicine Resident at Dartmouth and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit.
Research has shown that members of the LGBTQ+ community may be at a higher risk for developing certain types of cancer compared to their heterosexual counterparts. While there are various factors that contribute to this disparity, one potential link that has emerged is the fear of discrimination and its impact on overall health.
Discrimination and stigma against LGBTQ+ individuals have been well-documented in society, leading to higher rates of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. These negative experiences can also have a significant impact on physical health, including an increased risk for developing cancer.
One study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that LGBTQ+ individuals who reported experiencing discrimination were more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive drinking, and poor diet choices – all of which are known risk factors for cancer. Additionally, the chronic stress and anxiety caused by discrimination can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to developing cancer.
Furthermore, LGBTQ+ individuals may also face barriers to accessing healthcare, including discrimination from healthcare providers, lack of culturally competent care, and fear of being mistreated or judged. This can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment, leading to more advanced stages of cancer and poorer outcomes.
It is crucial for healthcare providers to be aware of these unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and to provide a safe and supportive environment for their patients. This includes offering culturally competent care, addressing any fears or concerns related to discrimination, and promoting regular screenings and early detection of cancer.
In addition, efforts to reduce discrimination and stigma against the LGBTQ+ community at a societal level can also help to improve overall health outcomes and reduce the risk of cancer. By creating a more inclusive and accepting environment, we can help to mitigate the negative impact of discrimination on the health of LGBTQ+ individuals.
In conclusion, the fear of discrimination can have a significant impact on the health of LGBTQ+ individuals, including an increased risk for developing cancer. It is important for healthcare providers, policymakers, and society as a whole to address these issues and work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. By doing so, we can help to reduce disparities in cancer risk and improve the overall health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.
