Experiences and Challenges of Sexual and Gender Minority Patients Undergoing Breast Cancer Treatment

Background: This survey study sought to characterize the experiences and treatments of sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients with breast cancer. Methods:The WhySurg survey was modified to focus on SGM patients and distributed via social media, support groups, and clinic flyers between 2023-2024.SGM individuals, age 18, and a history of breast cancer were eligible.Descriptive and reflexive thematic analyses were performed.Results: 50 individuals responded, with 31 (62%) completing it.Most (77%) were cisgender women, 16% nonbinary, and 3% transgender man.Most (58%) were lesbian/gay/homosexual, while 23% were bisexual, 13% pansexual, 13% queer, 3% asexual, 1 heterosexual, and 1 other.29% experienced discrimination related to their SGM identity during treatment.Three themes emerged: 1) SGM identity influenced surgical choice, 2) respondents were reluctant to share SGM identity, and 3) appropriate surgical expectations are key to optimize gender-affirming patient-centered outcomes. Conclusion:SGM data is essential to ensure patient-centered surgical decision-making.