Gay and bisexual men

Gay and bisexual men make up a very diverse group of people. Overall, we know that men who have sex with men (MSM) tend to be less likely to access healthcare and cancer screening because of actual or perceived homophobia or biphobia. As well, some MSM do not identify as gay or bisexual, which may mean that they do not perceive that healthcare messaging targeted to the LGBTQ community is targeted toward them, or that they do not disclose all relevant sexual behaviours to healthcare practitioners.

Several health disparities can put MSM at a higher risk for colon cancer relative to heterosexual men. For example, MSM:

• have higher rates of smoking
• are less likely to use preventive health services
• are more likely to consume alcohol

As a healthcare provider, one of the most important things you can do to maximize the health of MSM is to make it safe, comfortable and easy for them to be open about their sexual behaviours, orientation and relationships.