Health of AAPI women who have sex with women

Background: There is sparse research focusing on the health of Asian American and Pacific Islander women who have sex with women (AAPI WSW). No previous review has attempted to synthesize data from previous studies and its implications on health disparities.

Methods:

We reviewed literature and reports on AAPI, WSW, and AAPI WSW populations' health and synthesized this information within a context of racial stratification in the U.S. and AAPIs as model minorities.

Findings:

As multiple minorities, AAPI WSW face unique structural barriers to healthcare that may be associated with health disparities. Disparities related to sexual and mental health, along with other health outcomes, such as cancer, are explored. For example, AAPI WSW's disproportionate burden of mental health issues may arise from multiple stressors, or “multiple jeopardy,” caused by racism and homophobia. Barriers such as access to health insurance and discrimination within health systems influence AAPI WSWs preventative and primary health care use.

Conclusions:

AAPI WSW do not appear to be receiving the same clinical care as other populations of women. Focus on preventative care, like Pap smears, along with regular screenings, such as for domestic violence, are essential. Public health professionals should also be aware of health disparities related to depression, ethnic variations in cancer prevalence, and how culture may influence health-seeking behaviors. Programs should acknowledge the diversity within AAPI WSW populations in terms of acculturation, class, and social support. Policies should recognize populations who experience multiple jeopardy, and diminish structural barriers to care based on culture and sexual orientation.