DESPITE being at greater risk of cervical cancer, sexual and gender minoritized (SGM) people assigned female at birth (AFAB)—including lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals—face persistent barriers to routine cervical cancer screening in the U.S. A new study underscores the urgent need to revise national screening guidelines to better serve these populations.
Through interviews with 18 healthcare equity leaders, researchers identified three key strategies to close the gap in screening access. First, they recommend community-led and person-centred approaches, involving SGM voices in shaping the guidelines. Second, affirming and inclusive language must replace outdated terminology that reinforces binary gender norms and excludes LGBTQ+ experiences. Finally, systemic barriers such as lack of representative data and cultural insensitivity in care delivery must be addressed to improve screening rates and outcomes.
The findings emphasize that current U.S. guidelines overlook the specific healthcare needs of SGM AFAB people, contributing to disparities in early detection and care. Implementing these recommendations could lead to more inclusive, equitable, and effective cervical cancer prevention strategies.
As healthcare systems move toward equity, this study signals a clear path: listen to the communities most affected.
Reference
LeBlanc ME et al. Advancing equity in cervical cancer screening for sexual and gender minoritized people assigned female at birth (SGM AFAB) in the United States: recommendations from healthcare equity leaders. Reprod Health. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s12978-025-02082-2.
