Abstract PS4-12-21: Breast Cancer Profile and Healthcare Practices Among Transgender Patients within the Brazilian Unified Health System: a mixed cross-sectional and survey study (TRANSformation)

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Authors: I. C. Schultz, J. L. da Silva, Luciana Landeiro, N. C. Nunes, Ricardo Souza Evangelista Sant’Ana, G. Onzi, N. Viana
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Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide, predominantly affecting cisgender women, while in cisgender men it represents only 1-2% of cases. For the transgender population, estimated at 0.5-1% of the general population, there is a significant information gap. BC risk is more complex in this population due to gender-affirming hormone therapies and surgeries. In Brazil, data is even more scarce. Within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) database, the absence of structured mechanisms for recording gender identity since records rely solely on sex assigned at birth renders transgender people largely invisible, hindering equitable care and compromising early detection and management. This is the first nationwide study assessing BC care for transgender patients in Brazil using two complementary approaches: a retrospective analysis of 18 years of SUS database data to identify barriers in care and registration, and a nationwide physician survey to gather insights on institutional preparedness, challenges, and perspectives for screening and treating BC in transgender individuals. Methods: Outpatient records from the SUS database (2008-2025) were analyzed, encompassing a cohort of patients identified through cross-referencing gender-affirming procedure registries as a proxy for transgender identity. BC cases were ascertained via diagnostic codes and oncological treatment records. Complementarily, a nationwide anonymous online survey was conducted with medical oncologists, breast surgeons, gynecologists and other physicians involved in the transgender patients journey across diverse Brazilian regions. The survey explored perceptions regarding screening practices, adherence to clinical guidelines, and institutional readiness to deliver equitable oncological care for this population. Results: Analysis of SUS database records (2008-2025) identified 12,648 patients who underwent gender-affirming procedures. Within this cohort, only six cases of breast cancer were recorded (five in trans men and one in trans woman) representing

Fields of Study & Subjects

LGBTQ Health Identity and Policy Global Cancer Incidence and Screening Male Breast Health Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Clinical Cancer Research
Volume
32
Issue
4_Supplement
Pages
PS4–12
Publication date
17 February 2026
Language
EN