Need for HIV/AIDS education and intervention for MTF transgenders: responding to the challenge

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to report on the use of qualitative and quantitative research to develop an HIV/AIDS education intervention for MTF transgenders. Findings revealed that MTF transgenders have high prevalence of adverse health outcomes such as HIV, substance use, and psychological problems. MTF transgenders of color-African American, Latina, and Asian Pacific Islanders-experience heightened risk due to multiple stigmas associated with ethnicity and gender identity. Based on this evidence of need, we developed a series of transgender- specific HIV prevention, substance use and mental health treatment, and health education programs. Future health programs for stigmatized gender minorities, such as MTF transgenders, will benefit from conducting descriptive studies to identify the health needs of the community, and by linking research scientists, health providers, and community agencies to form a collaborative network for delivering evidence based and community sensitive services.