Screening oncologici per persone trans
If prevention excludes someone, health becomes a denied right; how oncological screening for trans people do (not) work
For many trans people, talking about oncological screening means talking about effective access to health, not only about prevention. Data from the National Institute of Health confirm this: the “Study on the health status of the transgender adult population in Italy” shows that the percentage of transgender people assigned female at birth (between 25 and 64 years old) deciding to take a Pap test is of 34%, while that of general population is 78%. This gap does not mean trans people are less concerned about their health, it rather shows the existence of real barriers.
Even nowadays, many screening processes rely on binary administrative categories – male/female, anagraphic sex, tax code – which can translate in real and significant exclusions. A transmasc person having cervix and uterus can be excluded from Pap test or HPV test prevention programs if registered as a man by informatic systems. A trans woman often does not find clear information on the most suitale prevention according to her body, hormonal, and clinic experience. Often, non-binary people are not even mentioned.
The issue is not only on a technical level, but also on a relational one. Many trans people avoid gynecological, senological, urological, and proctological examinations out of fear of being misgendered, judged, and exposed to intrusive questions or treated as “exceptions”. Sexual and reproductive health of trans people is too often considered only in relation to transitioning.
However, bodies cannot be reduced only to gender affirmations paths. Prevention, listening, correct information and trained health personnel are needed. Guaranteeing accessible oncological screenings means to build a prevention based on existing organs and individual needs, and not only on officially registered genders: prevention saves lives only if it is really accessible to everyone.
Edited by Libellula APS, an organisation that works for the protection and advocacy for transgender and non-binary people, by supporting their affirmation paths, and contrasting gender-based violence and human trafficking.