People with diverse genders and sexualities (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer communities, known as LGBTIQ+ communities) experience unique disparities, barriers, and risk factors related to cancer. 

Some barriers faced to accessing healthcare and gender affirming treatments include limited service availability, affordability, service navigation, gatekeeping, and being treated as if psychologically unwell. 

Risk factors include harmful patterns of alcohol and other drug use, homelessness, poverty, chronic health conditions, and associated ill mental health.

• Read the NSW LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy (2022-2027) to learn more.
   

“Training the healthcare workforce is important because  LGBTQ people have increased risk factors for cancer compared to the general population. These include higher smoking rates, higher rates of drinking alcohol and lower cancer screening rates for breast and cervical cancer as shown by both national and international data … as well, the LGBTQ communities have a history of stigma and discrimination which can lead to barriers to accessing mainstream health services, so training the healthcare workforce is incredibly important to improve clinicians’ confidence and competence to caring adequately and inclusively for LGBTQ communities. “ 

- Rebecca Cerio, Project Officer, Prevention, Cancer Institute NSW

 

While findings from recent literature show that healthcare professionals are comfortable treating LGBTIQ+ people, they also show that healthcare professionals would like to improve their knowledge and confidence treating LGBTIQ+ people with cancer by receiving training to provide safe, inclusive and culturally competent care.

Why we did this

To improve healthcare professionals’ knowledge and confidence in treating LGBTQ people with cancer, the Cancer Institute NSW (the Institute) collaborated with ACON to develop the LGBTQ Communities and Cancer Care eLearning module (the Module). 

The Module aligns with the NSW Cancer Plan (2022-2027) and its overarching priority of collaboration and the LGBTIQ+ Health Strategy (2022-2027). It has the following five learning objectives:

• Develop a greater understanding of LGBTQ people and communities;
• Identify the unique health and wellbeing issues faced by LGBTQ people;
• Understand health disparities affecting LGBTQ communities as a result of marginalisation and minority stress;
• Understand barriers that affect LGBTQ people and how to help overcome these as a health service provider;
• Increase knowledge, confidence, and practical skills in effectively engaging with people from LGBTQ people and communities.
   

 – Rebecca Cerio, Project Officer, Prevention, Cancer Institute NSW