The other study looked specifically at LGBTQ youth and found that they are at heightened risk for suicide compared to their heterosexual peers. The research, which surveyed more than 5,000 youth in Oregon, found that LGBTQ youth were more than twice as likely to have attempted suicide than their straight counterparts. The findings underscore the importance of providing support and resources for LGBTQ youth to address their mental health needs.
What to read around the web today
- Covid-19 vaccines may be safe for pregnant people, The New York Times reports.
- Another study finds Covid-19 vaccines don’t affect fertility, The Wall Street Journal writes.
- There’s a new drug for treating migraines — but some patients are cautious, NPR reports.
- Merck is developing a Covid-19 pill that could be available by the end of the year, The Washington Post reports.
- Novavax’s Covid-19 vaccine is nearing clearance in the U.K. while it remains on hold in the U.S., Bloomberg writes.
More reads from STAT
- ‘It’s not a magic bullet’: Can psychedelic therapy offer real mental health benefit?
- The Biden administration must act now to secure our health system against cyberattacks, by Robert Lord and Kevin Fu
- Now we need a national vaccine distribution strategy, by Sharona Hoffman
Black, multiracial, and Native American youths are facing disproportionately high rates of adverse childhood experiences, according to recent studies. These experiences, which include abuse and neglect, have been linked to a variety of poor health outcomes.
In a study that utilized data from the CDC’s national Youth Risk Behavior Survey, researchers found that trans and gender-questioning participants reported significantly higher exposure to adverse childhood experiences compared to their cisgender peers. The study, which involved around 17,000 students, revealed that nearly all trans participants (89%) reported experiencing emotional abuse, while the majority (51%) reported experiencing physical abuse.
Another study examined hospital records and found that Black, multiracial, and Native American youths also suffered from disproportionately high rates of adverse childhood experiences. This highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions and support for these vulnerable populations.
It is important to note that researchers faced limitations in both studies due to the data available. Hospital records do not consistently record gender identity data, and the CDC, under the Trump administration, has stopped processing transgender identity data, making future studies like this challenging.
In light of these findings, it is crucial for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to prioritize the mental health and well-being of marginalized youth populations. By addressing the root causes of adverse childhood experiences and providing comprehensive support services, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society for all young people.
As we continue to strive for health equity and social justice, it is essential to amplify the voices of those most affected by systemic inequalities and advocate for policies that promote the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, or background.
