A new report from the American Cancer Society finds members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) populations are at increased risk for certain types of cancer. The data identifies both increased need for LGBT cancer research and targeted patient services.
The findings, published in California Cancer Facts & Figures 2010, marks the first time the Society has released information specific to the LGBT community within the publication. Published every year since 1988, California Cancer Facts & Figures provides detailed analyses of cancer trends and presents information on known risk factors for the disease, factors that influence survival, the latest data on prevention, early detection, treatment, and ongoing and future research. The publication is referenced by writers, public health experts, medical professionals, the media and members of the public.
       "The American Cancer Society is committed to saving lives in the LGBT community by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against cancer," said Kay Coleman, chairperson, American Cancer Society California Division LGBT team and author of the report. "These findings will help the Society do this by opening the door for more in-depth discussions on improving cancer care for LGBT people."
       The report identifies social barriers associated with members of the LGBT community in seeking appropriate health care services and highlights increased risk of lung, breast, cervical, anal and liver cancers. Key statistics include: lesbians and bisexual women are 1.5 to 2 times more likely to smoke and gay men are 2.0 to 2.5 times likely to smoke.; lesbians are 2.3 times more likely to have never had a Pap test; and 35 in every 100,000 gay men develop anal cancer compared to less than one in every 100,000 heterosexual men.
       The study also recommends increased collection of sexual orientation/behavior data as a routine demographic variable in national, state and local health surveys as well as chronic disease surveillance systems to provide accurate incidence, prevalence and mortality data. In addition, the report highlights the increased need for health care providers to create an environment where LGBT patients feel safe and respected when discussing all maters that are pertinent to their health, specifically sexual orientation and sexual behavior, to accurately assess their health and cancer risks as well as to recommend appropriate interventions and cancer prevention programs.
        "To insure all people are granted access to quality medical care, health care providers need to be educated in greater depth about the issues facing the LGBT community," said Dr. Paul Coluzzi, spokesperson for the American Cancer Society and an oncologist in Irvine, Calif. "To save lives in the LGBT community there must be mutual respect between doctor and patient. Proper medical care can not be attained if there is not an honest and frank discussion regarding sexual orientation."
       The report is available online at www.ccrcal.org or a hard copy can be obtained by calling 1.800.227.2345.