The Time Is Now: Attention Increases to Transgender Health in the United States but Scientific Knowledge Gaps Remain

LGBT Health. 2015 Dec;2(4):287-91. doi: 10.1089/lgbt.2014.0073. Epub 2015 Mar 10.

Abstract

Attention to transgender health has dramatically increased in the U.S. Scientific knowledge gaps in empirical research, however, remain and act as barriers to achieving transgender-related health equity. We conducted a search using PubMed and PsycINFO to identify gaps in empirical, peer-reviewed publications related to adult transgender health in the U.S. between 1981 and 2013. We synthesized these findings and commented on opportunities for improving health research. Reducing health disparities and advancing transgender-related health equity requires greater investment in research that addresses current gaps to more comprehensively respond to the diverse health needs of transgender people.

Keywords: gender minority health; peer-reviewed empirical research; research gaps; transgender.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Biomedical Research / organization & administration*
  • Health Status Disparities
  • Humans
  • Sexuality*
  • Transgender Persons*
  • United States