Health inequalities among LGBTI+ populations persist as a significant global concern, shaped by the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors throughout the lifespan. Compared to heterosexual and cisgender individuals, LGBTI+ people experience disproportionately higher rates of mental health issues, substance use, chronic diseases, and encounter distinct barriers in accessing quality healthcare. These disparities are driven by enduring stigma, discrimination, and minority stress, which accumulate from early development through older adulthood. Biological mechanisms such as chronic stress impact immune and endocrine function, while psychological burdens like internalized stigma and trauma compound risk. Further, social determinants—including family rejection, socioeconomic adversity, and limited access to culturally competent care—heighten vulnerability, particularly during key transitional periods such as adolescence, coming out, transitioning, and aging.

This Research Topic seeks to collate studies that examine the intersections of biological, psychological, and social determinants of health among LGBTI+ individuals. Its aim is to inform the development of inclusive, evidence-based healthcare practices and policies that address the unique needs of LGBTI+ populations across the life course. Comprehensive, longitudinal research and targeted interventions are needed to promote health equity and improve outcomes for these communities.

To advance knowledge in this field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

Mental health conditions and psychosocial wellbeing

Risk factors for acute and chronic illnesses, including comorbidities

Access to and quality of healthcare services: barriers and facilitators

Impact of gender-affirming care on physical and mental health

Resilience, coping mechanisms, and protective factors

Developmental and life-course perspectives on LGBTI+ health

Intersectionality, social identities, and their impact on health outcomes

We invite high-quality submissions, including original research, narrative or systematic reviews, conceptual or methodological papers, reports, and clinical perspectives. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research are all welcome. In addition to academic manuscripts, we encourage community-based and experience-led contributions from organizations and associations involved in supporting LGBTI+ health. We particularly welcome innovative, multidisciplinary approaches and research focused on underrepresented groups within sexual and gender minorities.

This Research Topic is paired with the Research Topic “Structural Inequities and Social Justice in LGBTI+ Health: Policy, Power, and Participation”, which focuses on the social, political, and structural drivers of health inequalities in LGBTI+ populations.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Understanding Health Inequalities Across the Life Course in LGBTI+ Populations