ABSTRACT
178 Objective: To review the available literature on South Asian American (SAA) lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) individuals living in the United States, including the primary health issues that affect this population. Recommendations to effectively address the health needs of this subpopulation of SAAs are provided.
Key Findings: While a review of the literature revealed that the health concerns of SAA LGBTQ individuals are generally similar to those of the general population, a unique set of psychosocial concerns was also found in relation to this group. These include heterosexism, homophobia and internalized homophobia, racism, barriers to acculturation, and specific cultural pressures such as internalized heterosexism, all of which collectively influence their health status. These concerns also create barriers to self-identification and health-seeking behaviors which, in turn, may create specific health risks for this subpopulation of SAAs. This is most commonly seen in the areas of mental health, sexually transmitted infection screening and treatment, interpersonal violence, and utilization of preventive health services.
Recommendations: Community and grassroots organizations should continue to spearhead advocacy and training in order to increase awareness of and access to services for the SAA LGBTQ population. Service agencies and healthcare providers can play a valuable role by receiving and offering culturally appropriate training, improving education and outreach, and establishing psychosocial support services.
