8.1 2SLGBTQIA+ Community

8.1.1 2SLGBTQIA+ & Breast Cancer

Getting screened for breast cancer as a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community can be an intimidating experience.

You may have concerns about facilities being unwelcome or not being inclusive, or you may be worried about a potential crisis related to gender identity or gender dysphoria caused by the screening tests (e.g., mammograms) (Canadian Cancer Society, n.d.21). Because of these reasons, you may put off getting screened, which can ultimately lead to a delay in receiving a breast cancer diagnosis.

Despite these challenges, it is still crucial for you to get screened for breast cancer.

Transgender Women & Men

If you are a transgender woman, you still need to be screened for breast cancer (Canadian Cancer Society, n.d.b). Gender-affirming hormones for over five years can increase your risk of breast cancer. If you are receiving hormones and are between 50 and 69 years old, you should get a mammogram at least every two years.

If you are a transgender man, you also should get screened for cancer in your chest (Canadian Cancer Society, n.d.a). Even if you have had gender-affirming care (e.g., top surgery), you still need to keep an eye on your chest tissue for potential changes. If you are a transgender man between 50 and 69 years old, you should get a mammogram at least every two years.

Personal Experiences

To hear the personal experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, check out Video 23 (Mayo Clinic, 2021).