“Pink is my least favorite color”: experiences of sexual minority women and partners navigating breast cancer

Studies describing breast cancer care experiences of sexual minority women (SMW) and partners of survivors are lacking. Using a community-engaged approach, we characterized barriers to quality, person-centered care and quality of life outcomes in sexual minority breast cancer survivors. Sexual minority breast cancer survivors and partners participated in a brief survey and 60-minute qualitative interview. Data were analyzed using applied thematic analysis using NVivo software. Participants were survivors (n = 14), partners (n = 5), and individuals who were both survivors and partners (n = 4). Three themes describe the influence of sexual orientation on the cancer experience; influence of cancer treatment on sexuality, gender experience, and relationships; and advice for other SMW survivors and breast cancer clinicians. Significant gaps in breast cancer care delivery were identified, warranting clinical education, resources, and interventions to improve SMW breast cancer care.