Barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening in transgender men and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth

Abstract

Introduction Breast and cervical cancer screening protocols remain insufficiently tailored for transgender men and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB). These populations frequently encounter multifaceted barriers to screening, including gender dysphoria, prior sexual trauma, and pervasive mistrust of healthcare providers and institutions. Such factors often lead to distressing clinical encounters or complete avoidance of recommended screening. It is imperative that healthcare providers assess and address these barriers to ensure equitable and inclusive preventive care. Objective The objectives are to evaluate barriers to and adherence rates for breast and cervical cancer screening among transgender men and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth, and to identify psychosocial and systemic factors influencing screening behaviours in this population. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing PubMed, Google Scholar, Jama Oncology, NIH, and ScienceDirect. The review focused on peer-reviewed studies that examined preventive healthcare access, utilization patterns, and psychosocial determinants of screening adherence in transgender men and AFAB non-binary individuals. Special emphasis was placed on studies addressing the intersection of gender identity, healthcare discrimination, and psychological responses to cancer screening procedures Results Findings indicate that transgender men and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth often do not adhere to established breast and cervical cancer screening protocols. The most significant barriers include prior negative experiences within healthcare systems, fear of discrimination, and gender dysphoria triggered by screening procedures. These barriers substantially increase the risk of developing preventable cancers due to poor screening adherence. Conclusions Transgender men and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth are significantly underserved in current cancer prevention frameworks. Their diminished screening participation stems from both systemic healthcare inadequacies and unique psychosocial vulnerabilities. Addressing these disparities requires the implementation of gender-affirming care models, provider education, and the development of inclusive screening protocols that reflect the needs of gender-diverse populations. Aligning screening protocols with those used for cisgender individuals will promote more equitable healthcare access and better clinical outcomes. Disclosure No