All Research Is LGBTQI Research: Recommendations for Improving Cancer Care Through Research Relevant to Sexual and Gender Minority Populations

Abstract

A growing body of research suggests lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) people—referred collectively as sexual and/or gender minorities (SGM)—experience health disparities. While research is growing, limited evidence exists to inform patient-centered care for SGM people. The collection of demographic data is a cornerstone of quality assurance, yet collection of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data remains challenging and sparse. SGM people share with racial, ethnic, and other minoritized people stigma and suboptimal social determinants of health that may result in chronic stress and poorer health outcomes compared to cisgender, white, heterosexual people. Challenges are compounded for those who occupy multiple minoritized categories. The stigma and discrimination experienced by SGM are critically tied to behavioral risks related to maladaptive coping. Additionally, stigma impacts screening and other healthcare seeking behaviors. To advance SGM health equity, both clinicians and researchers need training on culturally appropriate collection of SOGI data and the relevance of these data to cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship.