Led by a transmasculine steering committee and researchers from the Population Council in New Delhi, Drexel University, the Centre for Sexuality and Health Research and Policy (C-SHaRP) in Chennai, the University of Toronto, and Harvard University, Our Health Matters uses research data and community knowledge to develop policy- and socially relevant survey measures to address research gaps in transmasculine health. Survey data from over 350 transmasculine people living in 23 Indian states were collected and findings will be launched at a community event in summer 2023.
Why it Matters: Stigma and discrimination from multiple sources, such as families, healthcare settings, and policies, can negatively impact the mental and physical health of trans men and transmasculine people. Interpersonal and structural supports may help protect against these challenges. However, documentation of community experiences and identification of strategies to improve well-being are currently limited. India accounts for 15% of global mental health disorders, yet little research on transmasculine mental health exists. Representative, community-based research in India, through which trans men and transmasculine people hold leadership roles and make research decisions, is critical to address gaps in transmasculine health in India.
The Approach: This two-year project will span from 2021 to 2023.
What we are doing:
- Seeking feedback from the study’s steering committee led by Indian trans men and transmasculine people to guide the research team on project goals, research questions, recruitment strategies, and approaches to sharing findings.
- Employing peer researchers to conduct in-depth interviews with 40 trans men and transmasculine people who are 18 years or older and living in India.
- Conducting a quantitative survey with over 300 transmasculine people participating in the study.
The Big Picture:
- Findings will be shared with community members, families, healthcare providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in summer 2023 to advocate for better healthcare and more affirming policies for Indian trans men and transmasculine people.
Partners:
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