ASPO Abstracts

Authors: Arthur EK, Ridgway E, Lee CN

Category: Culture and Cancer
Conference Year: 2021

Abstract Body:
Purpose of the study (one sentence): The purpose of this study was to summarize and critique contemporary research describing the experiences and outcomes of sex and gender minority (SGM) individuals with breast cancer surgery through systematic literature review. Methods: We performed a comprehensive search using keywords and subject headings to elicit studies that addressed experiences and outcomes of SGM breast cancer survivors in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and LGBT Life. Studies were included if (1) participants were breast cancer survivors who identified as sexual and gender minority (SGM) women or transgender men; (2) one or more of the following were reported: experiences, preferences, or needs related to breast cancer care or surgical treatment decision- making, as well as interactions with healthcare providers and support persons; (3) they were published in English; and (4) they were published in the last 20 years. Covidence® was used to document the inclusion/exclusion process. Included studies were assessed using The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. The authors performed thematic content analysis to identify emergent themes. Results: The search yielded 115 records, and seven studies were included in the final critical appraisal. All studies were qualitative with sample sizes ranging n=10-81, and quality scores ranged 6-8 out of 10. Studies were performed in the U.S. and Canada, and included sexual and gender diverse individuals. Major themes were identified: 1) surgical decision-making, 2) experiences of the post-surgical body, 3) information and support seeking, and 4) interactions with healthcare providers. Subthemes are explored, including body image vs. function, gender policing and politicizing of the body, and intersectionality. Conclusions: SGM breast cancer survivors have unique experiences of healthcare access, decision-making, and quality of life in survivorship. Researchers and clinicians must consider SGM breast cancer survivors' personal values and preferences for treatment, as well as their support network. Culturally sensitive healthcare provider interactions are critical for reducing health disparities in cancer care access and quality of life outcomes.

Keywords: sex and gender minority, LGBTQ, breast cancer, surgery, survivorship

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