In a shocking and concerning move, US health agencies have begun to scrub their websites of crucial data related to HIV and other health issues, all in an effort to remove references to “gender ideology.” This decision has sparked widespread concern among medical professionals, patient advocates, and the LGBTQ+ community, who argue that this move will have severe consequences for public health.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal health agencies have removed webpages containing vital information on HIV statistics, health disparities among gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender youth, and other important data. This includes a database that tracked behaviors that increase health risks for youth, which is now offline. The elimination of this data “creates a dangerous gap in scientific information and data to monitor and respond to disease outbreaks,” according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the HIV Medicine Association.
This move is a direct result of the Trump administration’s orders to solely recognize male and female sex and eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The Office of Personnel Management has given agencies until January 31 to comply with these orders, which include removing references to gender identity online. A spokesperson for the Health and Human Services Department confirmed that any changes to websites are being made to follow this guidance.
The removal of this critical data is not only alarming but also potentially deadly. For instance, a page with information on how people can get HIV tests is now offline, and a page for doctors with information on testing for HIV and treating patients has also been removed. This is a devastating blow to the fight against HIV and other diseases, as it will make it more challenging for medical professionals to access the information they need to provide adequate care.
The LGBTQ+ community is particularly affected by this move, as it erases their existence and ignores the unique health challenges they face. The National Institutes of Health has also been impacted, with a senior employee urging agency leaders to refuse to implement the Trump administration’s guidance, citing years of research and findings about sexuality and gender.
It is essential that we recognize the importance of inclusivity and diversity in healthcare. Erasing gender identity and sexual orientation from health data will only exacerbate existing health disparities and put lives at risk. We must stand together to demand that our health agencies prioritize the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. The fight against HIV and other diseases requires accurate and comprehensive data, and it is our responsibility to ensure that this information is available to those who need it most.