Clinical needs for transgender men in the gynecologic oncology setting

Gynecol Oncol. 2020 Dec;159(3):899-905. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.09.038. Epub 2020 Sep 29.

Abstract

Transgender men remain at risk for gynecologic malignancies, but are an underserved population. Members of the transgender community experience discrimination and have experiences that contribute to health disparities, including in gynecology and oncology. While efforts have been made within the United States to reduce inequalities experienced by members of this community, many needs in the clinical setting remain. Increased education and training among providers and healthcare professionals, and general improvements towards understanding barriers to health screening and health resource uptake may reduce some disparities. Additional research towards screening and cancer surveillance among this community will be necessary to understand any potential additional risks and survival disparities experienced by transgender men. This review focuses on barriers and clinical needs for transgender men in the gynecologic oncology setting, and suggestions for moving forward to improve care for this patient population.

Keywords: Cervical cancer; Gynecologic oncology; Ovarian cancer; Transgender; Uterine cancer; Vulvar cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / diagnosis*
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / therapy
  • Gynecology / organization & administration*
  • Gynecology / statistics & numerical data
  • Health Services Needs and Demand / statistics & numerical data
  • Healthcare Disparities / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / organization & administration
  • Medical Oncology / organization & administration*
  • Medical Oncology / statistics & numerical data
  • Quality Improvement
  • Social Stigma
  • Transgender Persons / statistics & numerical data*
  • United States
  • Vulnerable Populations