Regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, if an individual has a prostate, they can be at risk for developing prostate cancer. Getting screened or discussing sexual health can be challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals as many of them have been discriminated against by both nurses and doctors while navigating the healthcare system.
Here are some tips for finding a safe and inclusive healthcare provider:
- Ask other transgender or queer individuals about their healthcare providers or check local LGBTQ+ newspapers for them.
- Check out the office space of potential providers for an indication of whether or not they are trans and queer friendly.
- Listen to how the provider speaks with you, do they allow you to voice your concerns? Are they listening in an understanding and non-judgmental manner? Do they have a good comprehension of LGBTQ+ health concerns?
- Come out to your doctor only if you feel safe.
Other LGBTQ+ Resources
Get screened campaign – Run by the Canadian Cancer Society, the campaign aims to reach out to LGBTQ+ individuals to get screening done for breast, colon, and cervical cancers; it does not cover prostate cancer but includes relevant information and resources.
Trans people and cancer – An online pamphlet discussing medical cancer issues in transgender individuals, a section covers prostate cancer in transgender women.
Rainbow Health Ontario provider directory – A province-wide program designed to provide access to services for LGTBQ+ individuals; includes directory of LGBTQ+ friendly programs and services.
Sherbourne Health Centre – Offers a safe and non-judgmental healthcare environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in Toronto.
Finding Your True Voice: A Guide to Gender-Affirming Verbal Communication – For anyone looking to improve communication with their healthcare team