Reporting Sex and Gender Differences in Cardiovascular Research

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Health Disparities
• Inclusion Science

Background:

• Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations experience significant cardiovascular healthcare disparities.
• Current cardiovascular research often lacks data on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE).
• This data gap hinders the development of targeted interventions and equitable care for SGM individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the necessity of incorporating SOGIE data into cardiovascular research design.
• To inform strategies for the ethical and inclusive collection of SOGIE information.
• To improve cardiovascular health outcomes for SGM people through enhanced research practices.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on SOGIE data collection in health research.
• It identifies best practices for survey design, terminology, and privacy.
• It emphasizes the importance of sensitivity training for researchers and healthcare professionals.

Main Results:

• Integrating SOGIE data is critical for understanding and addressing cardiovascular health disparities.
• Inclusive survey tools and culturally sensitive approaches are essential for effective data collection.
• Sensitivity training enhances the ethical collection of SOGIE information and fosters trust.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive SOGIE data collection is fundamental to advancing personalized cardiovascular medicine.
• Inclusive research practices promote health equity and better outcomes for all SGM individuals.
• This approach supports inclusive medical education and healthcare practices.