Enhancing global cancer care for sexual and gender minority populations: regional perspectives and global implications.

Abstract

Little is known about cancer disparities faced by diverse sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations globally, with unique barriers in many low-income and middle-income countries. This Viewpoint examines the intersectional challenges faced by SGM groups across multiple settings in accessing high-quality equitable cancer care. In India, the Hijra population (a legally recognised third gender) experiences compounded discrimination due to stigma and socioeconomic marginalisation. SGM individuals in Kenya and Brazil grapple with interpersonal and institutional discrimination, as well as structural barriers that prevent them from receiving timely cancer treatment. By contrast, Thailand's relative success in engaging communities and implementing inclusive health-care models offers valuable insights into ensuring equitable access to care. Through these global contexts, and cognisant of the diversity of SGM individuals' experiences, we provide multilevel recommendations to increase SGM-inclusive cancer research, foster culturally responsive clinical practices, and advocate for evidence-based policy reforms that decriminalise same-sex relations and promote inclusive health-care access for all SGM populations.