The LGBTQ+ community celebrated their shared and lived experiences during Pride Month this June, and while LGBTQ+ experiences vary across individuals and generations, the importance of protecting one’s health remains the same.
“We celebrate Pride because we’re proud of who we are, what we’ve accomplished, and where we’re going in advancing health equity,” said Brian Hujdich, executive director of the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health. “A focus on prevention is critical to protecting our own health and the health of our communities.”
Below are three important preventative health measures to take not just during Pride season but all year round.
Preventing infection
Mpox has remained a public health threat since it first came to prominence in 2022. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of cases in the United States is more than double the number reported at the same time last year, and the surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo could lead to further spread globally.
MPOX, a virus similar to smallpox, can infect anyone. However, recent outbreaks have primarily affected the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the need for prevention. According to the CDC, MPOX is spread by direct skin contact, and those most at risk are gay, bisexual, men who have sex with men, and transgender and non-binary people. According to the CDC, 60% of at-risk populations have not been vaccinated, and 15% have only received one dose of the vaccine. To protect themselves, at-risk individuals should ask their health care provider or pharmacist for more information and determine whether they should get the vaccine, which is available at their doctor’s office, pharmacy, or local clinic.
Preventing HIV infection and sexually transmitted diseases is also an important issue to discuss with your doctor. Preventive medications such as PrEP can help prevent HIV infection, and doxycycline can help stop STDs from developing.
Collaborate with healthcare providers
Having a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ culture is just as important as preventive healthcare measures. In fact, studies have shown that people who are uncomfortable having open and honest conversations with their healthcare provider experience poorer health outcomes than those who are not. You can research your provider’s background and interest in LGBTQ+ healthcare, and then schedule an initial consultation to meet with your provider and gauge your comfort level.
Protecting the community
Taking pride in your community means taking steps to protect the health of everyone. Mpox is a great example of this. When enough people are vaccinated, it often limits the virus’s opportunities to infect new people and ultimately reduces the threat to the entire community. Conversely, if the virus is left unchecked, it can mutate, potentially becoming stronger or more contagious and putting more people at risk.
It’s important to remember the power of community and conversation. Discuss these health topics with your friends, ask each other, and raise awareness. As we continue to celebrate Pride all year long, let’s focus on protecting our health with the tools available to us.
For more information on protecting your health, visit the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health: https://healthlgbtq.org/mpox/
“The LGBTQ+ community has a tradition of adapting quickly and collectively to health concerns,” says Fujdig. “Being proactive about taking care of your health will allow you to enjoy yourself freely throughout Pride, the summer and all year round.” This article is sponsored by Bavarian Nordic.
