Theory of health promotion for sexual and gender minority populations with cancer

Background

Structural factors (e.g., cisheteronormativity) promote minority stressors, which generate healthcare disparities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations (also known as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersexual, asexual, and other sexual and gender-expansive persons--LGBTQIA+) with cancer. The individual’s biological, behavioral, social, and psychological response to minority stressors will vary throughout their life course. However, there is a lack of empirical and theoretical guidance for conceptualizing health outcomes among SGM subgroups.

Purpose

To propose a nursing theory for the health promotion of SGM populations with cancer.

Methods

Walker and Avant’s strategies for theoretical derivation were followed.

Results

I present the definition, theoretical assumptions, concepts, propositions, and implications for practice, education, research, and policy of the derived theory.

Discussion and Conclusion

The theory provides a nursing framework to understand and address the multilevel impact of minority stress on the health of SGM individuals throughout their cancer care continuum.