Disparities in liver cancer risk and outcomes in the LGBTQ community: A literature review.

528 Background: Liver cancer continues to be a significant public health concern, particularly among high-risk groups such as individuals with hepatitis infections, alcohol use disorders, and metabolic diseases. While liver cancer disparities have been well-documented among racial and ethnic minority groups, emerging research highlights significant health inequities within the LGBTQ community, including higher rates of risk factors and limited access to screening and care. This literature review aims to assess the extent of liver cancer disparities within the LGBTQ community and identify gaps in prevention, screening, and treatment. Methods: We performed a systematic search across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. The inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing liver cancer risk, prevalence, or outcomes in LGBTQ populations. Data on key liver cancer risk factors such as hepatitis B and C prevalence, alcohol use, obesity, and access to healthcare services were extracted and synthesized. Additionally, we reviewed public health reports and clinical guidelines relevant to LGBTQ health disparities. Results: The review identified significant disparities in liver cancer incidence and mortality among LGBTQ individuals. Hepatitis B infection rates were about 1.5 times higher, and hepatitis C rates up to 1.7 times higher among LGBTQ populations, particularly among gay and bisexual men. Alcohol use disorder was about 30-40% more prevalent in LGBTQ individuals, which further increases the risk of liver cancer. Screening for liver cancer in LGBTQ populations is underutilized, with rates approximately 20% lower than the general population. There were reported delays in diagnosis in LGBTQ community due to stigma, discrimination, and lack of culturally competent healthcare services. While some interventions targeting LGBTQ health have shown promise, the overall lack of targeted liver cancer prevention and treatment strategies remains a significant barrier. Conclusions: LGBTQ individuals face increased liver cancer risk due to a higher prevalence of key risk factors and inadequate healthcare access. Current screening and preventive strategies are insufficient for addressing these disparities. Targeted interventions, including enhanced screening efforts, hepatitis vaccination and treatment programs, and the development of LGBTQ-specific healthcare protocols, are needed to reduce the liver cancer burden in this underserved population. Policymakers and healthcare providers must address the unique needs of LGBTQ individuals to achieve equitable cancer outcomes. Prevalence of liver cancer risk factors in LGBTQ vs. general population. Risk Factor LGBTQ Population (%) General Population (%) Hepatitis B Infection 15 10 Hepatitis C Infection 18 12 Alcohol Use Disorder 25 16 Metabolic Syndrome 22 18 Screening Rate 40 60