Considerations for the Treatment of Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals in Colon and Rectal Surgery

Abstract

Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) experience critical barriers to health care access and have unique health care needs that are often overlooked. Given the rise in individuals identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, colorectal surgeons are likely to care for increasing numbers of such individuals. Here, we discuss key barriers to health care access and research among SGM populations and outline approaches to address these barriers in clinical practice. We also highlight two specific topics relevant to SGM populations that colorectal surgeons should be familiar with: current approaches to anal cancer screening among men who have sex with men, and transgender individuals, as well as the management of recto-neovaginal fistula in transfeminine individuals.