Lesbian Health and Breast Cancer
Lesbians share many health concerns with heterosexual women and also have unique health issues (Solarz, 1999). While there is some evidence of epidemiological trends among lesbians, the determinants of compromised health status or poor utilization of health services are often systemic barriers composed of homophobia in both society and care providers, and heterosexist bias in health policy or practice (O'Hanlan, 1997; Anderson et al., 2001). These barriers are compounded for lesbians who have disabilities, are economically disadvantaged or are members of visible minority or Aboriginal communities.
Breast Cancer and Other Cancers
The incidence of breast cancer among lesbians is unknown, although some studies claim that it is up to three times higher than in heterosexual women (Rosser, 1992). Epidemiological evidence suggests that lesbians may be at greater risk for breast cancer; due to having fewer pregnancies and having children later in life, heavier alcohol consumption, higher body mass index and less access to prevention / treatment such as breast examinations by a physician (Solarz, 1999). Lesbians, like women of Color and members of other oppressed groups, may also be at risk for late diagnosis and therefore greater mortality from cancer (Davis, 2000; Mainer Project, 1998).
Source: The Lesbian and Bisexual Women's Health Project was funded by Health Canada and Status of Women Canada, and co-coordinated by the British Columbia Centre of Excellence for Women's Health.
>> Lesbian Health Care
>> Lesbian Health History
>> Lesbian Health Issues
|
|
