Cancer in Sexual and Gender Minorities: Role of Oncology RNs in Health Equity

Despite comprising almost 8% of the population of the United States, sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients with cancer experience health inequities with poorer outcomes than non-SGM patients. Although sex-based guidelines exist for certain cancers, including prostate and cervical cancer, visibility into the specific needs of SGM patients is lacking because of the absence of systematic data collection and population-based studies. Oncology RNs are pivotal in providing patient-centered care inclusive of SGM people living with cancer. This article reviews current progress in cancer care for SGM patients and emphasizes the role of the oncology RN.