Provider Recommendations Are Associated with Cancer Screening of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming People: A Cross-Sectional Urban Survey

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the relationship between clinician recommendation and receipt of cancer screenings among a transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) sample (n=58). Methods: Respondents self-identified as TGNC, age 40+ years, and residents of the Washington, D.C. area. Odds ratios were calculated to compare provider-recommended with received screenings. An open-text question asked for recommendations to improve screening experiences. Results: Provider recommendations were associated with screenings for breast, colorectal, prostate, lung, and anal cancer. Respondents cited interpersonal skills, affirming language, and clear information as important health care provider characteristics. Discussion: Participants reported being more likely to be screened if a provider recommended one regardless of evidence from current published guidelines. Conclusion: Gender identity, anatomy, and hormone exposure are critical elements that should be collected in future cancer screening research to build a stronger evidence base for provider recommendations based on population-level and individual-level risks of TGNC people.