Equity and inclusion are fundamental for good health care. It is clear that there is bias against the diverse LGBTQ+ community in cancer care and also a perception by members of the community that they will be discriminated against when they seek medical assistance.
This article by the CEO of the world ovarian cancer coalition seeks to address these issues. Education is needed to explain that the use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy and breast-feeding are protective against ovarian cancer. Non-heterosexual women are therefore disadvantaged. Risk reduction surgery may be appropriate, but needs careful discussion and understanding.
Failure to include diverse minority groups in cancer research, most notably in the design of clinical trials, is common and applies not only to the LGBTQ+. Change is required. The author suggests individual care for everyone, together with a commitment to act in good faith.
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