Optimizing trans/gender-variant health

In contrast to lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals, trans/gender-variant individuals are defined/self-define according to their gender identity and presentation, which includes a broad spectrum of gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation. As noted in the recent IOM report, “The Health of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People: Building a Foundation for Better Understanding,” the evidence base for providing trans/gender-variant specific healthcare has been limited in several respects, including populations, sampling methods, and scope. A more rigorous research program is needed to understand the health implications of trans/gender-variant-specific issues. This panel will begin to address these issues from a variety of perspectives, including an exploration of gender, power and risk among men who have sex with transgender persons; a statewide community needs assessment focusing on transgender persons; a mixed methods approach to assess health behaviors and perceived healthcare needs of transmasculine adults; an online study of the role of gender identity in medical decision- making; and building clinical capacity for trans/gender-variant populations.