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  • Title: Risk factors for ovarian cancer: lesbian and heterosexual women.
    Author: Dibble SL, Roberts SA, Robertson PA, Paul SM.
    Journal: Oncol Nurs Forum; 2002; 29(1):E1-7. PubMed ID: 11845216.
    Abstract:
    PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To compare the distribution of risk factors for developing ovarian cancer in lesbian and heterosexual women. DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a retrospective medical record review. SETTING: Urban health clinic with special outreach to lesbians. SAMPLE: Typical participant (N = 1,019) was 42.9 years old and white (70%). Most were without health insurance, and 99% were poor (< $15,780 annual income). The majority (58%, n = 586) described themselves as heterosexual; 42% (n = 433) said they were lesbian. METHODS: Data were collected from medical records and analyzed using analysis of covariance and logistic regression techniques. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES: Ovarian cancer risk factors (parity, exogenous hormone use, smoking, body mass index [BMI], and tubal ligation/hysterectomy). FINDINGS: Lesbians had a higher BMI; heterosexual women had higher rates of current smoking and a higher incidence of the protective factors of pregnancy, children, miscarriages, abortions, and use of birth control pills. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicate that lesbians may have an increased risk for developing ovarian cancer. A study designed specifically to explore the risk factors of lesbian and heterosexual women for developing ovarian cancer must be undertaken to confirm these findings. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Differences in risk levels may exist for lesbians; therefore, healthcare providers must become comfortable asking questions about sexual orientation and behavior.
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