The Health Information Gap Is Making LGBTQ Americans Sick | Opinion
20 million Americans identify as LGBTQ, according to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. In recent years, national debates have erupted surrounding LGBTQ health issues such as gender-affirming care and inclusive sexual health education in schools.But another issue at stake is getting less attention, even though it involves immediate health dangers to millions of people.
LGBTQ Americans have long experienced discrimination, stigmas, and exclusion in the health care system. In a survey last year, nearly a quarter (24 percent) said that during a doctor's appointment, they were blamed for their own health problems, compared to only 9 percent of non-LGBTQ respondents.
And 16 percent said they were denied medical services; less than half as many non-LGBTQ respondents said the same.These negative experiences in the health care system have a dramatic impact on their overall health.
LGBTQ Americans are more likely to suffer from even common illnesses and diseases, and to lack the necessary treatment to get better.Dr.
