Research priorities in trans health: a Delphi-study

Area of Science:

• Transgender Health Research
• Public Health Policy
• Community-Informed Research

Background:

• Understanding transgender health needs is evolving, but research priorities may not align with community needs.
• Current research agendas are often driven by policy or healthcare professionals, lacking direct input from the transgender community.
• This study addresses the gap by seeking to identify research priorities from both the transgender community and researchers in France.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and prioritize trans health research needs in France.
• To incorporate the perspectives of the transgender community and healthcare professionals in setting research agendas.
• To ensure research priorities reflect the actual needs and desires of the transgender population.

Main Methods:

• A three-round Delphi survey involving expert stakeholders, including transgender individuals, their families, and health/social science professionals.
• Qualitative analysis of open-ended questionnaire responses in the first round.
• Likert scale ranking of research propositions and a subsequent expert workshop in the second phase.

Main Results:

• 44 research priorities were identified from 217 responses.
• Five main research priorities achieved strong consensus: evaluating puberty blockers' effects (95%), assessing support for trans youth (92%), studying support systems for trans youth and parents (86%), understanding trans identity persistence around puberty (86%), and needs assessment for adolescent support (83%).
• Thirteen additional proposals were identified as moderate priorities.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights a strong consensus on research priorities concerning transgender youth care and support needs in France.
• These findings can inform future transgender health research, ensuring it is aligned with public needs and community desires.
• Emphasizes the value of community-driven research in advancing transgender health.