community: Last News

If that headline shocked you, it should have. The executive orders that Trump has been signing may very well affect your health.

Oh, you thought Trump was only attacking the “T” in our community? Nope. He’s targeting the “L,” the “G” and the “B” as well.

Let me give you some critical facts that explain why you should be alarmed — very alarmed.

Point one: There are health disparities in the LGBTQ+ community.

Some diseases disproportionately affect certain populations — sickle cell anemia primarily impacts Black individuals, and Tay-Sachs is more prevalent among Jewish communities. Similarly, there are health concerns that disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ people.

Are you surprised? While you may be aware of HIV and AIDS as health issues in our community, there are other needs that are less discussed. For instance, certain cancers occur more frequently in LGBTQ+ individuals than in heterosexual populations.

Now, here’s the kicker: One of Trump’s executive orders will halt studies investigating why this happens. In some cases, it will also hinder treatments and restrict access to information that could be vital to you if you’re affected.

This is more than a health issue — it’s an attack on our ability to protect ourselves.

Point two: Let’s talk about PrEP.

The United States is involved in a program that helps provide PrEP to approximately 26 million individuals in Africa. Our government has been underwriting the costs to pharmaceutical companies.

Well, thanks to Trump, that program just ended. Do you think pharmaceutical companies will absorb the loss? Highly unlikely.

Here’s what that means for us: If you’re on a government-assisted program to access PrEP, especially through an LGBTQ+ clinic, you could lose access. For those with insurance, brace yourself for significantly higher co-pays. The pharmaceutical industry isn’t known for prioritizing affordability over profits.

Point three: Funding for LGBTQ+ health clinics is at risk. You might think living in a blue state