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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Tristan T. Ruby, MPH¹, Brenda Seals, PhD, MPH¹, Alison Gerig, LCSW², Joe Ippolito, LCSW³, Robert J. Winn, MD³, and Melanie Santiago, MS, PA-C³. (1) Department of Public Health, Temple University, 1700 N. Broad Street, Room 304, Philadelphia, PA 19122, 215-985-6261, tristanr@temple.edu, (2) Psychotherapist/Consultant, 255 S. 17th Street, #1504, Philadelphia, PA 19103, (3) Mazzoni Center, 1201 Chestnut Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Female to male transgender persons (FTMs) face unique barriers to pap smear screening. Many FTMs, including those that have some form of surgery, retain reproductive organs including the cervix. FTMs with a cervix remain at potential risk for cervical cancer and need routine screening. However, FTMs may not realize their risk of reproductive cancers and may avoid screening even if they see themselves in need of screening.

The study examined the attitudes toward and needs of FTMs around cervical cancer and pap smear screening to facilitate pap smear screening among FTMs.

Thirty-five self-identified FTMs completed a quantitative and qualitative survey focused on knowledge, attitudes, and experiences related to pap smear screening and potential intervention strategies.

While most participants reported having a pap smear within the past three years, most participants also indicated discomfort with having pap smear screening and discussing cervical health. Participants reported a lack of healthcare providers and screening settings sensitive to transgender issues. Limited exposure to FTM-specific health education materials also was a barrier.

Discomfort with pap smear screening may affect FTMs' adherence to screening guidelines and, ultimately, may negatively affect overall well-being. A client-centered approach to pap smear screening exams may reduce FTMs' discomfort with screening. Healthcare providers need education about transgender issues and a proactive approach to recommending pap smear screening to FTMs. Research on the health needs of FTMs, health education materials for FTMs, and effective outreach strategies are sorely needed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Recognize the importance of cancer screening for all at risk populations.
• Describe barriers to pap smear screening among FTMs
• Identify strategies to facilitate pap smear screening among FTMs
• Identify future research priorities for cervical cancer and other health issues in FTM communities.

Keywords: Cervical Cancer,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation