Despite making progress in recent years, transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals continue to face significant barriers when it comes to accessing healthcare services that meet their unique needs. A new study published in Seminars in Oncology Nursing highlights the challenges TGD people encounter when seeking cancer screening and prevention services.
The researchers, from Canada and Australia, emphasize that these individuals deserve the same level of care as cis-gendered people but are often met with a lack of knowledge among healthcare providers about providing inclusive and respectful care. The study’s co-author, University of South Australia nurse practitioner Toni Slotnes-O’Brien, notes that TGD people experience higher rates of cancer due to factors such as alcohol and tobacco use, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and other health issues.
One major obstacle is the lack of training among healthcare providers in providing gender-affirming care. This can lead to personal opinions influencing a clinician’s decision-making process, resulting in delayed or inadequate treatment for TGD individuals. The study emphasizes that many TGD people are reluctant to seek medical attention due to fears of discrimination and violence.
The World Professional Association of Transgender Health recommends guidelines for healthcare providers when considering the needs of TGD individuals on estrogen therapy. These include factoring in the length of time on estrogen, dose, patient age, and age at which gender-affirming hormones were started.
Independent studies have shown that breast cancer occurs at a younger average age in transmasculine individuals who undergo mastectomy. This highlights the importance of regular screening for TGD individuals. The researchers suggest that nurse practitioners could play a crucial role in improving healthcare access by working collaboratively with clinicians to address these barriers.
The study’s findings underscore the need for increased awareness and education among healthcare providers about providing inclusive care for TGD individuals. By closing this gap, we can work towards ensuring that all people receive the same level of quality care regardless of their gender identity or expression.