Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2025

Integrating Augmented Reality Tools in Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Prognostication and Diagnosis
Published on: February 6, 2020
Breast cancer screening rates and influencing factors among LGBTQ groups in Japan
Akemi Hara1, Akihiko Ozaki2,3, Michio Murakami4
1Medical Governance Research Institute, Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
Background:
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals face significant health disparities worldwide, particularly in preventive medicine. In Japan, where breast cancer has the highest incidence rate among women, understanding screening behaviors among LGBTQ individuals is crucial for improving public health outcomes.
Objective:
This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between LGBTQ status and breast cancer screening behaviors in Japan, identifying factors influencing screening uptake and highlighting challenges in health management for the LGBTQ community.
Methods:
Using data from the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS), we analyzed breast cancer screening status among 11,056 biological females. Multinomial logistic regression and stratified regression analyzes were employed to examine factors associated with screening behavior, comparing LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ groups.
Results:
LGBTQ individuals demonstrated significantly lower odds of undergoing breast cancer screening (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.73-0.91, p < 0.001) compared to non-LGBTQ individuals. Key factors influencing lower screening rates among individuals in the survey were primarily linked to LGBTQ identity, followed by higher rates of being uninsured, unmarried status, lower income levels, alcohol consumption. Stratified analysis revealed that uninsured LGBTQ individuals had significantly lower odds of screening (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08-0.70, p = 0.01) compared to those with national health insurance.
Conclusion:
This study identifies noteworthy differences in breast cancer screening behaviors between LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ individuals in Japan, as indicated by lower odds of screening participation among LGBTQ individuals, even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors. Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including improved healthcare access, LGBTQ-friendly medical environments, and awareness campaigns to address these disparities and promote health equity within the LGBTQ community.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Affecting Illness
For instance, risk factors are connected to illness,...
Cancer Survival Analysis
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Sexually Transmitted Infections

