Sexual and Gender Minority Issues Across NCCN Guidelines: Results From a National Survey

Background: The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ) population is at higher risk for multiple types of cancers compared with the heterosexual population. Expert NCCN panels lead the nation in establishing clinical practice guidelines addressing cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer sites and populations. Given the emergence of new data identifying cancer disparities in the LGBTQ population, this study examined the inclusion of medical and/or psychosocial criteria unique to LGBTQ within NCCN Guidelines. Methods: Data were collected for 32 of the 50 NCCN Guidelines. Results: NCCN panel members reported that neither sexual orientation (84%) nor gender identity (94%) were relevant to the focus of their guidelines; 77% responded that their panels currently do not address LGBTQ issues, with no plans to address them in the future. Conclusions: Greater consideration should be given to the needs of LGBTQ patients across the cancer care continuum. Given that research concerning LGBTQ and cancer is in its infancy, additional empirical and evidence-based data are needed to bolster further integration of LGBTQ-specific criteria into clinical care guidelines.