ArticleBMC urology2024
Heteronormative biases and distinctive experiences with prostate cancer among men who have sex with men: a qualitative focus group study.
Article in BMC urology, 2024. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 3 papers.
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Who cites it
3 citing papers in PubMed, 2 citations in OpenAlex.
- Sexual function outcomes following prostate cancer treatment in sexual and gender minority populations: a mixed-methods systematic review.Translational andrology and urology · 2026Review
- Urological care for sexual and gender minorities: a narrative review toward equitable care.Current opinion in urology · 2026Review
- The Experiences and Perspective of Partners of Men With Prostate Cancer in Ireland: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.Nursing open · 2026Article
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Authors and funding
8 authors at 2 institutions in 1 country.
Funding
No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
backgroundMen who have sex with men (MSM) face many challenges and biases in healthcare. Within urology there is a need to better understand how prostate cancer impacts MSM given the unique ways in which side effects that accompany treatment may affect this population. The goal of this study is to explore the experience of MSM with prostate cancer to advance the existing literature in this area and inform implementation and delivery of clinical practice and policy guidelines.
methodsFour focus groups were conducted with a semi-structured interview guide. Using a phenomenological qualitative approach consistent with grounded theory [1] and naturalistic inquiry principles we sought to better understand the direct experiences of MSM with prostate cancer. Audio transcriptions were thematically analyzed to identify themes that impact MSM throughout their prostate cancer journey. An iterative, team-wide classification process was used to identify, organize, and group common codes into higher-order categories and themes.
resultsPatient's choice of provider and their interactions with the healthcare system were strongly impacted by their sexual identities. Participants commented on navigating the heteronormative healthcare environment and the impact of assumptions they encountered. MSM experienced the sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatment in unique ways. Issues with erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction had significant impacts on patient's sexual experience, with some describing being forced to explore new modes of sexual expression. Anejaculation was a theme that was distressing for many participants. The emotional impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis was significant in the men interviewed. Common themes included loss of identity and fear for future relationships.
conclusionsMSM have unique concerns after prostate cancer treatment that differ from men who don't identify as MSM. It is critical that providers familiarize themselves with the concerns of this patient population regarding prostate cancer treatment. An important step toward reducing heteronormative bias in prostate cancer care is to better understand the goals, identity, and sexual practices of MSM and to provide informed anticipatory guidance.
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