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Abstract #149825
Audio (mp3) recordingPhyllis M. Wallace, DrPH, CHES, Public Health, Walden University, 6655 N Maplewood Ave., #1, Chicago, IL 60645, 773-973-3275, pmwallace03@yahoo.com
Objectives. This mixed methods study examined prevalence of injection silicone behavior among 15 transgender adolescents and adults in Chicago, IL.
Methods. An exploratory study of interviews and surveys was designed to collect baseline prevalence data on injection silicone behavior. Grounded theory, health belief model, and social change theory were the conceptual models for data collection.
Results. Integration of mixed methods findings indicated that participants inject silicone to feminize or masculinize appearance. More than half of participants responded that silicone use was common. Positive HIV or AIDS status and silicone use was reported. Although knowledgeable about shifting, allergic reactions, systemic complications, and even death, transgender continue to inject silicone for cosmetic enhancement. Injection sites included face, breasts (MTF), chest (FTM), buttocks, and hips.
Conclusions. Mixed methods design was an effective framework to ensure investigative rigor. Transgender peer-led community outreach is critical to assess and prevent widespread injection silicone use. The health department must collaborate with the transgender community to increase awareness and promote silicone harm reduction initiatives to reduce injection silicone behavior. Health policy and a trans-focused health education module emerged from the results.
Learning Objectives:
- A. Describe the process for employing Mixed Methods research to determine prevalence of injection liquid silicone among transgender adolescents.
- B. Apply a trans-friendly silicone harm reduction program and policy with the aim of promoting healthier behaviors among transgender adolescents.
Keywords: Public Health Education and Health Promotion, Research Agenda
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.
The 135th APHA Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 3-7, 2007) of APHA