Many gaps
exist in the current research done on LGBT health. According to a report
released by the Institute of Medicine and the National Institute of health, there
is a lack of research regarding the health issues affecting these individuals.
It claims that more research needs to be done regarding social influences,
differing needs of different generations of LGBT individuals and barriers to
quality health care. The report claims that because of this lack of research,
health care providers are not well educated on the issues affecting LGBT
health. They do not know what questions to ask regarding sexual behavior,
gender identity, and mental health. This information matters so that the health
care provider can make proper referrals, evaluate support at home and with
peers, and provide adequate mental and health care. With further research,
better health care can be provided for these individuals and policy makers can
fund preventative programs which may be needed for these individuals.
One barrier
to further research is many members of the LGBT community not wanting to come
forth and openly identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender
and do not want to discuss health issues, sexual behavior, and mental health
problems. Another barrier is a political push to get questions regarding LGBT
health on federally funded surveys.
Although federally funded surveys ask questions about similar
populations, so far it has not included LGBT research questions and would be
considered a big step in the advancement of LGBT health outcomes and
disparities if one day included.
LGBT youth are at an increased risk for
depression and suicide, and are frequently targets of bullying, discrimination
and violence. It has also been shown that the gay population is at an increased
for HIV, especially African American males. Many national health organizations
are calling for further research regarding these topics. Mental health issues,
as well as sexual behavior which may lead to health problems such as STD’s or HIV
need to be further analyzed. Although research regarding the LGBT community is
lacking, we are making advancements and hoping to one day better understand the
health needs affecting these individuals.
ACM
ACM
LGBT Community 'Largely Ignored' By Health Research. (2011, June 1). Breaking
News and Opinion on The Huffington Post. Retrieved February 27, 2013,
from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/04/01/doctors-lgbt-
health_n_843275.html
I have come to realize, the need for awareness and education of special need medical care, is across the board, in differing degrees. I do not want to believe that it is specific to any gender, age, religious affiliation, ethnic background, disease/illness/injury or sexual orientation. As a society, all people and their specific needs and requirements, for a happy and healthy life, must be addressed by all that could/would provide comfort or care.
ReplyDeleteThere is an urgent need for mental health services for the depression and especially suicidal ideations that can result from those who bully LGBT individuals. Additionally, junior high and high school administrators need to swiftly and severely discipline those found bullying LGBT students. Lives are at stake here.
ReplyDeleteWhat research is currently being conducted to assist in the healthcare of the LGBT?
ReplyDeleteWhat research do you feel is missing?
Why do you think that the research is missing?
What can you do as a nurse to advocate for the LGBT population?