Bladder cancer, a common urologic malignancy, has poor morbidity and mortality in sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals, stemming from higher risk, poor access to care and lack of quality cancer care.
To begin addressing this disparity, this review offers key considerations for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of SGM individuals with bladder cancer. In addition to thorough medical and surgical history, initial evaluation should include discussion of patient goals for sexual function and organ preservation, as well as an evaluation of sexual function. Prior gender affirming surgery and patient specific sexual function goals will impact diagnosis and treatment approaches, including surgical and radiation therapy. Throughout care for SGM individuals with bladder cancer, it is critical to acknowledge the systemic discrimination that may be experienced by these individuals and approach conversations with sensitivity and humility and incorporate mental and social support as appropriate.
Urologic oncology. 2024 Jun 15 [Epub ahead of print]
Hannah Ahrendt, Helen Sun, Kirtishri Mishra, Shubham Gupta, Laura Bukavina
Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH., Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH; Urology Institute, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH., Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH; Urology Institute, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH. Electronic address: .