Fear and systemic barriers often keep queer people away from accessing healthcare facilities, leading to missed cancer screenings and delayed diagnoses, according to a report by DH Online published on July 6, 2026.
Systemic barriers in healthcare
LGBTQIA+ individuals face unique challenges in cancer screening, including discrimination, lack of provider knowledge, and fear of mistreatment. A 2025 study by the American Cancer Society found that only 45% of transgender individuals had received breast cancer screening, compared to 62% of cisgender women. Dr. Sarah Johnson, an oncologist at the University of California, San Francisco, said, "Many LGBTQIA+ patients avoid screenings because they fear judgment or have had negative experiences with healthcare providers."
Impact on early detection
Delayed screenings lead to later-stage cancer diagnoses. Data from the National Cancer Institute shows that queer populations have a 20% higher mortality rate for breast and cervical cancers. The report highlights that transgender men may skip mammograms due to gender dysphoria, while lesbian and bisexual women are less likely to seek regular Pap smears.
Call for inclusive policies
Advocates urge healthcare systems to adopt LGBTQIA+-affirming practices, such as using inclusive language, training staff, and offering gender-neutral screening facilities. Dr. Johnson added, "We need to create safe spaces where everyone feels comfortable seeking care." The article emphasizes that addressing these barriers is critical to reducing cancer disparities in the community.
