The headline: "Gay Men Diagnosed With Cancer At Higher Rates”
A new report compiling data from studies over the last decade has had some interesting results. It points out a disparity among our heterosexual counterparts.
The report found that gay/bisexual men were diagnosed with cancers at twice as often as straight men. The study also found that lesbian/bisexual women were slightly less healthy after cancer treatments than straight women. Studies are certainly flawed but this data backs up information we already knew.
LGBT populations also have higher rates of drug abuse, cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, and of course HIV which can in some instances contribute to development of certain types of cancers. We also sometimes have less access to good health information from providers and we tend to be less open with our healthcare providers about risk factors.
What I would hope we take from any new information is the importance of regular screenings and early detection. Cancers such as anal cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, testicular cancer, and skin cancers are some of the most treatable cancers when detected early.
Early interventions for risk factors as well as prevention education are key to helping our friends and families lower their risk for development of cancers now and in the future.
Have you been screened this year for any type of cancer?
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