LGBT Pride

We have come a long way since HIV was labeled the “gay disease.” This label was spawned from fear of HIV, and based on the observation that the first cases of HIV appeared in gay men in the early 1980’s. However, this label was not only discriminatory but also inaccurate as intravenous drug users also became infected. Furthermore, by the mid 1980’s children (usually those born to drug users) began to show symptoms of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Some people also contracted the virus via blood transfusions. Despite our best efforts and advances in medicine, HIV/AIDS still affects roughly 34 million people worldwide; people from many different ethnic groups and religions, with different socioeconomic backgrounds and sexual preferences. However, disparities still exist. According to AIDS.gov, in the United States, 61% of new HIV cases in 2009 were via male-to-male sexual contact; the ethnic groups most severely affected were Blacks/African-Americans and Latinos (even among females). What do all of these statistics tell us? We need to do a better job.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals (LGBT) experience various health disparities, not just those related to HIV/AIDS. This effect is compounded if the person belongs to multiple minority groups (for example, Latino and gay or female and transgender). Many studies have shown a direct correlation between the number of minority groups one belongs to and the discrimination he or she faces. This discrimination, in addition to identity issues and problems fitting in or strained relationships with unsupportive friends and family, can lead to many mental health problems. These problems include depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicide. According to Youth Pride, Inc., gay and lesbian youth are three times more likely to attempt suicide and suffer higher rates of verbal abuse and isolation than their heterosexual counterparts. Additionally, LGBT youth are more likely to be isolated, homeless and be victims of physical and sexual abuse. All of this contributes to poor physical and mental health …and so the cycle continues.

Disparities surrounding access to proper medical care also exist for LGBT individuals. Bias or cultural incompetence within the health care system create barriers to care. Lesbian and bisexual women are not screened as often for breast and cervical cancer. Transgender individuals are less likely to have health insurance. Marriage inequality and a lack of equal rights for LGBT domestic partners (compared to married individuals) also exacerbates these problems. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), seeks to alleviate some of these problems by improving access to health care for all Americans, guiding state Medicaid agencies on financial protections for same-sex couples and improving health data collection for the LGBT community and other minorities.

In commemoration of the Stonewall Riots in New York City in 1969, June is celebrated as LGBT Pride Month. Since the 1960’s the LGBT community has increased its visibility as a social group and successfully demanded rights it was not previously afforded. However, discrimination, inequality and health disparities still exist. Individuals from all walks of life can play a part in resolving these issues. Strive to be accepting of others and encourage leaders and lawmakers to enact legislation that will ensure equality for all.