Researching Connections between Social Justice and LGBTQI Wellness in Portland, Oregon

In 2009, the local health department in Portland, OR conducted an extensive online wellness survey with local LGBTQI adults. Existing research identifies significant health disparities for LGBT people: high rates of diabetes, cancer, HIV, suicide. Most often we focus on individual behavioral causes – risky sexual behavior, drinking, smoking. But it's intuitive and documented by research that what we call “risky behaviors” are connected to many different social and environmental factors beyond individual control. Using the concept of “social determinants” pioneered by those working on racial and ethnic health disparities, we explore ways social determinants and social (in)justice may promote or inhibit health for LGBTQ people of all backgrounds. This research shifts from a historical focus on poor health and bad outcomes to include understanding assets that help LGBTQ people thrive. It also aims to highlight broader community responsibility for wellness, not just changing individual behavior among LGBTQI people.

Over 800 people responded, with 14% of respondents identifying as trans or gender queer. We found significant relationships between physical and mental health and experiences related to sexual orientation/gender identity in the following domains: feelings of pride, positive experiences growing up, family support and community connection.

Results are being used in collaboration with community based organizations to guide development of programs and policies to promote LGBTQI health equity by addressing root factors influencing health.

This session will share the philosophy behind the research, key results, and future directions.