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    NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2008
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    IN THIS ISSUE
    [Click on the link to go to the story]
    1. Nominations Open for Outstanding Service Provider Awards
    2. Denial of Marriage Negatively Affects Health
    3. New Data on the Uninsured in the United States
    4. New Research on LGBT Health Needs
    5. Request for Comments on CBAE
    6. Call for Abstracts: 2009 National HIV Prevention Conference
    7. Call for Papers: Journal of HIV/AIDS Surveillance & Epidemiology
    8. Annual Survey: Healthcare Equality Index
    9. Research Participants Needed
    10. The National Minority AIDS Council is Recruiting Potential Cabinet Members
    11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Fellowship
    12. National Center for Health Statistics Fellowship
    13. New Study of Tobacco Use Among Gay Men
    14. Merck Seeks Gardasil Approval for Use Among Men
    15. Bush’s “Right of Conscience” Rule Moves Forward
    16. Self-Testing Effective for Some Sexually Transmitted Infections
    17. Social Determinants of Health and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
    18. Family Acceptance Project Gets Funding
    19. Program Evaluation Guide
    20. Safer Sex Brochure Update
    21. Work for the New Administration
    22. Postdoctoral HIV Research Fellowships
    23. Contract Job: Community Outreach Coordinator

    1. Call for Nominations for Outstanding Capital District Providers
    RAI and its co-sponsors the Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council, In Our Own Voices, the Gay & Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), and the National Coalition for LGBT Health, will present awards in March '09 to those individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the field of LGBT Health in the New York Capital District. Nominations for the awards are now open. The nomination form is available at the RAI web site [http://www.rainbowaccess.org/awardnominationform.pdf], in the CDGLCC commUNITY News, and at various venues in the capital district.

    2. Denial of Marriage Negatively Affects Health
    The journal of the National Sexuality Resource Center (NSRC), Sexuality Research and Social Policy, released new findings that the denial of marriage as well as the exposure to negative messages associated with ballot initiatives has a detrimental effect on all gay, lesbian and bisexual (GLB) persons, including those not seeking marriage.
           Researchers found that the affect on GLB people of negative messages and the refusal to recognize their relationships creates a sense of alienation and unwelcome. These feelings lead them to experience high levels of stress and depressive symptoms as well as to fear end-of-life discrimination and a death in pain. The findings were consistent among both coupled and single gay, lesbian and bisexual people, suggesting that relationship recognition plays a large role in sense of well being regardless of present relationship status.
           NSRC Director Gil Herdt adds that “the physical and mental health benefits of marriage for heterosexual adults have been firmly established—benefits derived, at least in part, from the tangible resources, federal benefits, and legal protections offered to spouses by society… and all gays and lesbians suffer without it.”

    New Data on the Uninsured in the United States
    The Census Bureau has performed a first-of-its-kind national analysis of the uninsured population using data from 2005. The Census Bureau’s Small Area Health Insurance Estimates (SAHIE) program provides data broken down by state, county, gender, age and income.
           Although the new Census report does not include sexual orientation, the Williams Institute has written a series of studies that provide state-level demographic and economic information on same-sex couples based on Census 2000 data. The Williams Institute is a think tank at the University of California Los Angeles School of Law that works to advance sexual orientation law and policy through research.

    4. New Research on LGBT Health Needs
    The American Journal of Public Health has published new research on LGBT health for clinicians. “Sexual and Gender Minority Health: What We Know and What Needs to Be Done,” by Kenneth H. Mayer, MD, Judith B. Bradford, PhD, Harvey J. Makadon, MD, Ron Stall, PhD, MPH, Hilary Goldhammer, MS and Stewart Landers, JD, MCP, discusses LGBT health as a key area for health professionals.
           The specific needs of the LGBT population are presented based on the newest data; methods for defining and measuring LGBT populations and their health barriers are also discussed. Suggestions for improvement in research methods, clinical outcomes and services are included.

    5. Request for Comments on CBAE
    The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is seeking comments on its Community-Based Abstinence Education (CBAE) program and its effectiveness. ACF is submitting a CBAE progress report to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The purpose of this report is to assess each grantee’s compliance with Federal law and achievements. Data will be collected from grantees as responses to specially developed questions, including those designed for young people served in the program.
           Copies of the proposed collection may be obtained by emailing infocollection@acf.hhs.gov with the title Community-Based Abstinence Education Performance Progress Report.
           Send comments to Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project, Fax: 202-395-6974, Attn: Desk Officer for the Administration for Children and Families.

    Call for Abstracts: 2009 National HIV Prevention Conference
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is holding its National HIV Prevention Conference, Promoting Synergy Between Science and Program: Innovation and Action to End the Epidemic, in Atlanta from August 23-26, 2009.
           Abstracts highlighting HIV prevention in the United States are now being accepted. Abstracts may only be submitted online and must be received by December 10th. Authors may submit no more than two abstracts.
           Send submissions to www.2009NHPC.org and questions to info@2009NHPC.org.

    Call for Papers: Journal of HIV/AIDS Surveillance & Epidemiology
    The Journal of HIV/AIDS Surveillance & Epidemiology (jHASE) is accepting abstracts of no more than 350 words on any of its many topics or focus areas, some of which include research design, statistical analysis and quality assurance.
           Abstracts will be accepted until 5:00 pm EST, November 14th. For information on all acceptable article topics go to: http://www.ieph.org/hase/j-focus-areas.htm. General information and submission guidelines are available at: http://www.ieph.org/hase/j-gateway.htm

    Annual Survey: Healthcare Equality Index
    The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) are seeking participants for the annual Healthcare Equality Index Survey. The survey focuses on healthcare facility policies related to LGBT patients.
           Topics include nondiscrimination policies, cultural competency training and recognition of families that are headed by same-sex couples.
           For your convenience, the survey can be submitted online. To obtain your facility's unique username and password for the online version of the survey, contact Tom Sullivan at 202-216-1594 or HEI@hrc.org. The survey deadline is December 31st.
           To learn more about this project, go to: http://www.hrc.org/issues/hei.asp

    9. Research Participants Needed
    Duke University researchers in cooperation with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) are working to develop a measure of sexual functioning for people who have been diagnosed with cancer, and they are recruiting LGBT survivors.
           Participants will be asked to complete a confidential survey online, and will receive $25. Participants must be 18 or older, have been diagnosed with cancer and identify as LGBT.
           For more information contact the coordinator at caps@geri.duke.edu.

    10. The National Minority AIDS Council is Recruiting Potential Cabinet Members
    The National Minority AIDS Council (NMAC) is gathering resumes for the next Administration’s transition teams. NMAC, on behalf of several organizations, is looking to the AIDS prevention advocacy community to recommend leaders for the new administration’s relevant cabinet positions.
           Resumes will be collected until November 5th, with recommendations going out on November 14th. Please forward the names of recommended individuals to Lance Toma at lance@apiwellness.org.

    11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Fellowship
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention (DHAP) has 4 positions for its 2-year post-doctoral research fellowship program, HIV Prevention in Communities of Color.
           The mission of the fellowship is to mentor recent doctoral-level graduates in conducting research leading to the prevention of HIV infection in communities of color.
           The fellowship is from August 2009 to August 2011. The application period is from November 1 to December 31.
           For more information go to: http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/aboutdhap/orise/.

    12. National Center for Health Statistics Fellowship
    The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) is seeking an Associate Service Fellow to work with the Data Analysis and Quality Assurance Branch. The Fellow will participate in all aspects of preparing, analyzing, and dissemination of the annual National Health Interview microdata.
           Applicants must have hold a master’s degree or higher in demography, survey methodology, epidemiology, public health or a related field. Familiarity with sampling, collecting data and performing statistical analysis is preferred. Skills in SAS/STATA/SPSS are expected.
           Applications will be accepted until December 15th; send Curriculum Vitae, cover letter, transcript and 3 reference letters to
           Dr. Eve Powell-Griner, National Center for Health Statistics, 3311 Toledo Rd. Room 2220, Hyattsville, MD 20782
           Questions can be submitted to epowell-griner@cdc.gov.

    13. New Study of Tobacco Use Among Gay Men
    A new study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research: Official Journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco looked at the relationship between men’s early sexual experiences with men and the likelihood of their later tobacco use. The article suggests that men’s early sexual debut with men has influence on tobacco usage behavior due to exposure to homophobia and socialization environments. It is recommended that tobacco control programs be culturally competent with regard to gay men to be effective.
           For information on accessing the full text go to: http://www.ntrjournal.org/ .

    14. Merck Seeks Gardasil Approval for Use Among Men
    The vaccine Gardasil, currently used to prevent cervical cancer in women, may be beneficial to men, too. Merck researchers studied about 3,400 heterosexual and 600 gay male participants, who were not infected with the human papilloma virus (HPV), over 30 months. Participants received either the Gardasil vaccine or a placebo. Three men in the Gardasil group developed genital warts, and none had pre-cancerous growths. In the placebo group 28 men had warts, and 3 had pre-cancerous lesions. Its use cut the risk of infection by 90%, which could have significant implications for men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM are 17 times more likely to develop anal cancer from HPV.
           After reviewing these encouraging results, Merck is seeking approval of Gardasil for men this year. The vaccine is already approved for use in makes in 40 countries. The Coalition will be monitoring this effort.
           Read the complete article at: http://www.merck.com/newsroom/press_releases/research_and_development/2008_1113.html

    15. Bush’s “Right of Conscience” Rule Moves Forward
    It looks like the Bush administration will instate the controversial provider “right of conscience” rule. The regulation would permit any “entity” to refuse to participate in any procedure that they find morally objectionable. This goes far beyond current law, which allows doctors and nurses to refuse to provide abortions; it includes any entity that receives federal dollars, such as hospitals, doctor’s offices and pharmacies. Not only are doctors and nurses covered but also other staff who do not directly participate in the procedures, such as “an employee whose task it is to clean the instruments” (LA Times).
           Working with Lambda Legal, the Coalition coordinated efforts among LGBT organizations to provide comments stating that the regulation would have a negative impact on the health of the LGBT community. The comments focused on the belief that the new regulation would erode civil rights protections, have a negative impact on the diversity of the healthcare workforce, a censoring impact on doctor-patent communication and an increase in the denial of services for LGBT people and families.
           According to Judith Waxman of the National Women’s Law Center, the broad language used in the regulation could reach contraception, sperm donations, and end-of-life care. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the American Medical Association (AMA) oppose the rule, both saying that a patient’s health must be the first priority. The regulation may indeed pose a risk to patient health, as evidenced by several incidents in which providers refused care to women in situations where it was necessary, including a young woman seeking an abortion due to a life-threatening embolism.
           While Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Mike Leavitt publicly stated that the rule is limited to abortion, “the rule says that law should be enforced ‘broadly’ to cover any ‘activity related in any way to providing medicine, healthcare or any other service related to health or welfare’” (LA Times).
           In an effort to prevent the passage of the rule Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) have introduced the Protecting Patients and Health Care Act, a piece of legislation that would prevent what they call “a last-minute attempt to undermine women’s rights” (Clinton-Murray Joint Press Release).
           If Leavitt issues the regulation before December 20th as planned, it will be final when the Obama Administration takes office, however, the new administration could overturn it according to the Congressional Review Act of 1996 (CSR). The CSR “contains a clause determining that any regulation finalized within the 60 days of congressional adjournment –Oct. 3, in this case- is considered legally finalized on January 15th. The new Congress then has 60 days to review it and reverse it with a joint resolution that can’t be filibustered in the Senate” (Politico).
           For the full article as published in the LA Times go to: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-na-conscience2-2008dec02,0,5741992.story
           For more information on the CSR see the article ”Dems Eye Midnight Regulations Reversal” at politico.com [http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1108/15530.html]
           Read more about the Protecting Patients and Health Care Act at: http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/110_SN_20.html.
           Read the press release issued by Senators Clinton and Murray at: http://www.rhrealitycheck.org/emailphotos/pdf/Murray-Clinton-Release.pdf.

    16. Self-Testing Effective for Some Sexually Transmitted Infections
    The Health Protection Agency in London recently found that patient self-testing in men who have sex with men (MSM) is as effective as clinician testing for Chlamydia and gonorrhea. The study looked at 272 MSM who performed pharyngeal and rectal swab self-tests and also had the procedure completed by a clinician. No significant difference was found between the self-test and clinician test. While the study was conducted in the UK, the implications could lead to a reduction of demand on sexual health services in other countries as well.
           For more information contact sarah.alexander@hpa.org.uk

    17. Social Determinants of Health and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
    A new article published in Sexually Transmitted Diseases looks at social determinants of health as they related to sexually transmitted disease (STD) transmission and acquisition. It presents a general model of the relationship between social determinants and STD outcomes in an epidemiological context. Disparities among determinants including health care, segregation, socioeconomic status and correctional experiences are examined closely. The article also discusses the implications for health programs and services.
           To read the full text, go to: http://ijsa.rsmjournals.com/cgi/content/abstract/12/4/211

    18. Family Acceptance Project Gets Funding
    The Family Acceptance Project of San Francisco State University has received a three-year $500,000 grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to develop the first comprehensive intervention to help increase acceptance and decrease rejection among families with LGBT children. Research conducted by Project Director Dr. Caitlin Ryan finds that families have a large impact on the mental and physical health of their LGBT children. Families can change the rejecting behavior when they understand how it negatively affects their children’s health. The Project aims to develop new interventions to help families change this behavior; there is special focus on multi-ethnic families.
           For more information on the Family Acceptance Project go to: http://familyproject.sfsu.edu/.

    19. Program Evaluation Guide
    "Measuring Progress: An Introduction to Evaluating Community Programs" published by Planned Parenthood Federation of America is now available. This is a resource manual that provides information regarding program evaluation. Its focus is on program outcome evaluation and contains guidelines to determine if a program has achieved its intended outcome.
           A limited number of copies are available. To order email cfle_mailing@ppgnnj.org.

    20. Safer Sex Brochure Update
    The Fenway Institute has released two newly updated sex-positive safer sex brochures, “Safer Sex for Bisexuals and their Partners” and “Safer Sex.” They can now be downloaded for free, but printed copies are also available for purchase.
           To download “Safer Sex for Bisexuals and their Partners” go to: http://www.fenwayhealth.org/site/DocServer/safersexbi.pdf?docID=322
           To order, contact Ian Price at iprice@fenwayhealth.org

    21. Work for the New Administration
    The Gay & Lesbian Leadership Institute (GILL) is working to identify strong LGBT candidates to serve in the Obama administration. The Presidential Appointments project is a talent bank for openly LGBT professionals seeking appointed positions within the next administration. A comprehensive application is required, along with a resume. The Project will forward qualified applications to the Transition Team. For complete details on how to apply go to: http://www.glli.org/presidential.

    22. Postdoctoral HIV Research Fellowships
    Fellowships in behavioral sciences research and HIV for July 2009 are available at the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute. The innovative program is a research fellowship in human sexuality as applied to HIV-related risk, health and prevention.
           Applicants with either a PhD in psychology or social science or an MD are welcome. Fellows receive up to three years of support for stipends, insurance, travel to conferences, and research. Persons with an ethnic minority background are strongly encouraged to apply.
           More information about the program is available on their website: http://www.hivcenternyc.org/

    23. Contract Job: Community Outreach Coordinator
    The Center for Health Equity is seeking a full-time contract person to implement a grant focusing on community dialogues around social determinants of health. A masters degree in public health education, education, or related field required; fiver years of community engagement and experience conducting social action training programs preferred. Please keep in mind that the schedule may vary, and the position is located in Louisville, Kentucky.
           Interested candidates should contact Linda Tobe at Linda.dunn@louisvilleky.gov.

    PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS

    OCTOBER 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. RAI Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Service Providers
    2. Kaiser Family Foundation Releases Election Brief on Key Health Policy Issues
    3. National Survey on Transgender Discrimination
    4. Article Review Finds No Evidence Supporting Abstinence-Only Programs
    5. CDC Asks for $4.8 Billion to Prevent New HIV Infections
    6. Sewell Fund Learning Partnership
    7. New Edition of the American Journal of Sexuality Education Out
    8. New Online Health Database
    9. Registration Now Open for the Praxis Project 2009 Learning Circles Sessions
    10. National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors Seeks Manager
    11. New Grants for Community Health Centers
    12. Final Report of the Commission on Social Determinants of Health
    13. HGLCH’s Annual Fundraising Gala: One Big Event
    14. CDC Announces New Blog
    15. National Suicide Prevention Week & The Trevor Project’s New Campaign
    16. Submit Abstracts Now for 2009 National Conference on Tobacco and Health
    17. NIH Loan Repayment Programs
    18. NCHS/Health Policy Fellowship
    19. Kellogg Health Scholars Program Accepting Applications

    1. RAI Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Service Providers
    Next March, during National LGBT Health Week, RAI and its co-sponsors The Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council, In Our Own Voices, the Gay & Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), and the National Coalition for LGBT Health, will host the first Capital District LGBT Health Awards Dinner. Individuals and orgaizations who have made outstanding contributions to the field of LGBT Health in the New York Capital District will be presented with special awards recognizing their work.

    Nominations for those awards are now open. If you know of a person or group that has contributed outstanding service to LGBT people, please fill out this online form and send it to us attached to an e-mail or via snail mail to: Rainbow Access Initiative, Capital District LGBT Health Awards Committee, PO Box 9144, Niskayuna, NY 12309.

    2. Kaiser Family Foundation Releases Election Brief on Key Health Policy Issues
    The Kaiser Family Foundation recently released the first in a series of briefs on health care issues pertaining to the 2008 election. The first brief, Covering the Uninsured: Options for Reform, discusses why people are uninsured, the harmful outcomes of this crisis at the individual and community levels and offers policy solutions for providing coverage for this population.

    The Foundation has also updated Five Basic Facts on the Uninsured and The Uninsured and Their Access to Care fact sheet, two resources available on their website.

    To access the reports and fact sheets and more information about health care, visit http://www.health08.org/.

    3. National Survey on Transgender Discrimination
    The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force recently launched a comprehensive national survey to measure/record discrimination against transgender people. Data will be collected regarding discrimination in housing, employment, public accommodations, healthcare, education, family life and criminal justice.

    “We know that transgender people face discrimination on multiple fronts,” said Mara Keisling, executive director of NCTE. “This data will help us sort out the combination of forces that leave transgender people vulnerable to unemployment, homelessness and violence.”

    To participate in the survey online go to https://online.survey.psu.edu/endtransdiscrim/

    4. Article Review Finds No Evidence Supporting Abstinence-Only Programs
    In a special issue of the journal Sexuality Research and Social Policy, a review of the available research reveals no scientific evidence in support of abstinence-only programs even though they have received $1.5 billion in federal funding. The journal published a series of articles that discuss flaws in abstinence-only programs, including problems with accuracy, effectiveness and ethics. The study concludes that a comprehensive approach to sex education is most effective.

    For more information visit http://www.guttmacher.org/.

    5. CDC Asks for $4.8 Billion to Prevent New HIV Infections
    At a House Government Reform and Oversight Committee hearing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials said they would need $4.8 billion dollars over the next five years in order to reduce the number of new HIV infections annually. A new report finds that about 56,000 new infections occur each year in the US, and—between lost productivity and treatment—each HIV infection costs more than $1 million, making failure to invest in prevention far more costly than the proposed budget. The CDC says it could reduce transmission rates by half over 12 years.

    The increased funds would be used to expand HIV testing, research new prevention techniques, provide antiretroviral drugs to HIV-negative people as a preventative measure, and develop microbicides and vaccines. CDC Director Julie Gerberding stated that the funding request is about needing new tools, and that “AIDS is a social disease as well as a viral disease...if we don't address the underpinning issues, we'll never get to where we need to be.”

    Panelists at the hearing also called for additional education and prevention programs targeting minority men who have sex with men (MSM); only four of the 49 CDC recommended intervention programs specifically target MSM and only one targets minority MSM. The Coalition submitted written testimony on the need for more funds to address this crisis, especially among gay, bisexual and same gender loving African American men.

    Transcripts from the hearing held Tuesday, “The Domestic Epidemic is Worse than We Thought: A Wake-Up Call for HIV Prevention,” are now available on the Committee's web site at http://oversight.house.gov/story.asp?ID=2171.

    6. Sewell Fund Learning Partnership
    The Sewell Fund Learning Program will provide funding for a mid-career medical or health care librarian or information scientist to spend a year providing their expertise to a host organization. Hosts can be public, non-profit or private but must be involved in health sciences direct service, research or product development. The organization must also have a project that would both allow the fellow to become immersed and benefit from the fellow’s participation. The application period for health organizations interested in receiving funds to host a fellow is now open.

    Host organizations will receive funds to cover salary, benefits and operation costs associated with the fellowship. Host organization applications are due November 15. For more information , please visit http://www.sewellfund.org/.

    7. New Edition of the American Journal of Sexuality Education Out
    A new edition of the American Journal of Sexuality Education has been released. This issue features the following articles: “Inside the Sex Ed Studio: An Interview with Peggy Brick” by William J. Taverner, “Using Surveys to Track Student Sexual Behavior and Attitudes in the Public Schools: Current Case Law and Future Implications” by Dr. Ronald K. Bullis, JD, and “Encouraging Students to Apply Human Sexuality Material to Themselves by Using Integration Papers” by Dr. Jennifer L. Hughes. There are also 2 research pieces and a critique past studies on the effectiveness of sexuality education curricula.

    For more information about the journal, see https://www.haworthpress.com/store/product.asp?sid=63HLWEM67KAQ9NDSGCLQWKGXGNPQ3GUC&sku=J455.

    8. New Online Health Database
    The National Minority Quality Forum is launching the Zip Code Analysis Project, an online database designed to predict the demand for health care services for chronic conditions in specific areas. Data will be colleted by zip code among both minority and general populations, and data will be available nationally, by state, congressional district and other regions. Information will also be sorted by race, ethnicity, age and sex.

    The database will be available to advocacy groups, non-profit organizations and policymakers. For more information see http://www.ihealthbeat.org/articles/2008/9/19/Public-Health-Group-To-Launch-Population-Health-Database.aspx?topicID=55.

    9. Registration Now Open for the Praxis Project 2009 Learning Circles Sessions
    Registration is now open for the Praxis Project's 2009 Learning Circles training sessions. The sessions are designed for activists who use advocacy and policymaking as key tools for improving their communities. They are especially geared toward those who organize to enhance the health, well-being and safety of their communities.

    The first 2009 session, Communicating to Advance Racial Justice, takes place January 23-25. Participants will develop the skills to design strategy and create communications plans that are grounded in their local context in the post-election environment. Registration is now open for this session.

    Three sessions have been announced, and some scholarships are available. For more information visit the Praxis Project [http://www.thepraxisproject.org/capacity/residential.html] or contact Training Director Ditra Edwards at 202-234-2689.

    10. National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors Seeks Manager
    The National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) is looking for a Manager for their Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities Program. The manager will be responsible for advancing the role and authority of health department HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis programs across the country. They will also be working to identify priority focus areas, develop projects and create steps that will encourage effective and culturally competent health department responses to the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS among African American communities.

    For more information visit NASTAD at http://www.nastad.org/.

    11. New Grants for Community Health Centers
    The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has approved $39 million in grants for medical services at community health centers. This is largely due to the hard work put in by health center advocates and the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). The majority of the funds will go to existing centers to improve mental health/substance abuse, oral health, and/or pharmacy services. Other portions will allow 19 existing centers to expand services, and will be sent to communities without health centers to build new ones. For more information on the grants awarded, visit http://newsroom.hrsa.gov/releases/2008/expandedcapacity.htm.

    12. Final Report of the Commission on Social Determinants of Health
    The Commission on Social Determinants of Health (CMDH), established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2005, has recently put out its final report, stating that the health gap could be closed in a generation. The CMDH collects evidence on health equity and tries to create a global movement toward achieving it.

    The report calls on the WHO, all governments and agencies to take part in global action to improve the lives of the people of the world, and work toward achieving health equity within a generation. Life expectancy and quality of life, as it relates to health, are closely related to a person’s degree of social disadvantage. Inequities arise when systematic differences in health among a population occur that could be avoided by reasonable action. These inequities are due, in large part, to the political, social, and economic policies of an area.

    The report makes several recommendations that are based on three principles of action: improve daily living conditions, , tackle the inequitable distribution of power, money, and resources, and measure and understand the problem and asses the impact of action.

    For more information on the CSDH or to read the full report, please visit http://www.who.int/social_determinants/en/.

    13. HGLCH’s Annual Fundraising Gala: One Big Event
    The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective (HGLCH) is having their 6th annual gala, One Big Event (OBE) on Saturday, November 8th at the Hilton Hartford Hotel from 6pm to midnight.

    HGLCH is Connecticut’s only LGBT health organization and is celebrating it’s 25th anniversary. Tickets for the event are $100, $150, and $200.

    The HGLC empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy. For more information, visit http://www.hglhc.org/onebigevent/index.html.

    14. CDC Announces New Blog
    The director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Dr. Kevin Fenton, is authoring a blog, Health Protection Perspective. The goal is to create a forum to discuss and generate new ideas about prevention and research.

    To check out the blog, visit http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/blog/.

    15. National Suicide Prevention Week & The Trevor Project’s New Campaign I’m Glad I Failed
    The Trevor Project, in conjunction with National Suicide Prevention Week, launched a new ad campaign aimed at LGBTQ youth. “I’m Glad I Failed” targets teens that have thought about or attempted suicide as a result of homophobia and encourages them to seek help, including a hotline run by the Trevor Project.

    For more information visit http://www.thetrevorproject.org/imgladifailed/.

    16. Abstracts are Now Being Accepted for the 2009 National Conference on Tobacco or Health
    Abstract submissions are now being accepted for presentation at the 2009 National Conference on Tobacco or Health. The purpose of the conference is to improve tobacco control programs. The conference takes place June 10th-12th in Phoenix, Arizona.

    Proposals are welcome from anyone from students to researchers on one of the twelve program areas. The deadline for abstract submission is November 14th. For more information on the conference and abstract submission, visit here.

    Also, the 2009 National Conference on Tobacco or Health is seeking volunteers to review abstracts for twelve program areas. Reviewers will be asked to review and rate 10-15 abstracts using an online review process.

    The review process will run from late November to mid-December. The deadline to volunteer is October 31st. For descriptions of the program areas and to volunteer visit http://www.tobaccocontrolconference.org/2009/conference/program/abstractreview.cfm.

    17. NIH Loan Repayment Programs
    The National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) extramural Loan Repayment Programs (LRPs) are accepting applications through December 1st.

    The LRPs will repay up to $35,000 of qualified educational debt annually to those selected. Applicants must be conducting nonprofit biomedical or behavioral research and meet other requirements. There is a program specifically for those researching health disparity issues.

    For more information visit http://www.lrp.nih.gov/.

    18. NCHS/Academy of Health, Health Policy Fellowship
    The Center for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)’s National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) is accepting applications for the 2009 Health Policy Fellowship. The goal is to encourage collaboration between staff and visiting scholars, and allows the fellow to participate in activities related to future NCHS surveys.

    Applicants may be at any level, including doctoral students at the dissertation stage. Last day to submit an application is January 5th. More information on the program and the application process can be found at http://academyhealth.org/nchs/index.htm.

    19. Kellogg Health Scholars Program Accepting Applications
    The Kellogg Health Scholars Program is currently accepting applications for its 2009-2010 program. This is a two-year post-doctoral program designed to develop scholars as social leaders with research expertise of the nature health disparities and how to eliminate them. The program consists of two tracks, and nine scholars will be selected among the tracks. The fellowship includes a stipend of $63,000 a year.

    The deadline for applications is December 3rd. Only online applications are accepted. For more information on the tracks and to apply visit www.kellogghealthscholars.org or contact Saundra Bailey for the Community Track or Marie Briones-Jones for the Multidisciplinary Track.

    SEPTEMBER 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. Pat Whalen Named for CDGLCC Award
    2. New Regulation Threatens LGBT Healthcare
    3. Lower Number of Insured Equals High Number of People On Public Coverage
    4. Scholarships Available for Gay Men’s Health Leadership Academy
    5. The Merwyn (Mitch) R. Greenlick Endowed Scientist for Health Disparities
    6. THINK! QUEER Series / September 11 in NYC
    7. SAGE’s Fourth National Conference on LGBT Aging October 12 – 14, 2008
    8. Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) Launches campaign emphasizing the significance of fathers in the lives of their gay sons.

    1. Pat Whalen Named for CDGLCC Award
    The Capital District Gay and Lesbian Community Council (CDGLCC) has announced that Pat Whalen, Executive Director of RAI, is the recipient of this year's "Nancy Burton Straight but not Narrow Award." The award will be presented at the Annual Awards Dinner on October 15th.

    2. New Regulation Threatens LGBT Healthcare
    On August 21st, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a new proposed regulation that purports to “ensure that Department funds do not support morally coercive or discriminatory practices or policies in violation of federal law.” The regulation is aimed at the more than half a million organizations and entities (including state and local governments) that receive funds through HHS and also provide any kind of abortion procedures, care or referrals. The extent that this regulation would potentially limit reproductive healthcare access is disturbing, and the regulation is so broadly written that it could curtail civil rights protections and healthcare for LGBT populations.

    According to HHS, the major reasons for this new regulation are to improve the diversity of the healthcare workforce and to “take an active role in promoting open communication within the healthcare industry.” Unfortunately, the regulation limits that diversity to “religious, cultural and/or ethnic groups,” while ignoring the LGBT community.

    Because there are no federal healthcare protections for LGBT people, this regulation could lead to a refusal of services and a refusal to refer to another healthcare entity. If you are interested in submitting comments on the proposed regulation, please join us on the September 3rd conference call. For call information please contact the National Coalition for LGBT Health at coalition@lgbthealth.net. The comment period ends Friday, September 19th. To view the regulation, please see this link on the HHS web site: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2008pres/08/20080821reg.pdf

    3. Lower Number of Insured Equals High Number of People On Public Coverage
    According to new numbers released by the Census Bureau on August 26th, the percentage of uninsured U.S. residents declined in 2007 to 15.3% of the population from 15.8% of the population in 2006. The proportion of people with private coverage dropped .4%, however, revealing an increase in public coverage, which grew from 27.0% of the population in 2006 from 27.8% in 2007. In addition, the Northeast and Midwest had the lowest uninsured rates (11.4% each). The West had a rate of 16.9% and the South was the highest at 18.4%. The rates declined in every region, except the Midwest, which had no statistically significant increase or decrease.

    The report, which is based on data from the Current Population Survey of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. , is available at: http://www.census.gov/prod/2008pubs/p60-235.pdf.

    4. Scholarships Available for Gay Men’s Health Leadership Academy
    The National LGBT Tobacco Control Network is sponsoring two scholarships for the Gay Men’s Health Leadership Academy taking place September 19 to 22 at Easton Mountain Retreat in Greenwich, NY. This exciting academy is designed to give participants access to cutting-edge thinking about the gay men’s health movement in the U.S. and abroad and to connect community leaders into an international network of gay men’s health organizers and activists.

    The academy is open to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities who are seeking to make a difference in the future of gay men’s health at the local and national level.

    Scholarships will cover airfare, ground transport, $750 conference registration and room and board. Awardees will be asked to keep a near-livetime blog of all their experiences at the conference or write up a brief summary of their lessons learned after the fact. Applicants from underserved populations (low socioeconomic status, communities of color, rural, etc.) will be given extra weight in the review.

    Applications are due Friday, September 29th by midnight. Applications will be accepted by email only with LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP in the subject line. To apply, please email bartlett.cd@gmail.com. Briefly describe why sending you to the conference will help you to improve your work on LGBT tobacco activities and note if you are from any underserved population. Decisions will be made by Tuesday, September 2nd, and scholarship winners will have to book flights by September 5th. If you have any questions about the academy, please contact Chris Bartlett at 267-977-0638

    5. The Merwyn (Mitch) R. Greenlick Endowed Scientist for Health Disparities
    The newly created Merwyn (Mitch) R. Greenlick Endowed Scientist for Health Disparities position at the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research will direct and sustain a research program to help eliminate health disparities and improve health in underserved and disadvantaged populations. The successful candidate will design and obtain funding for a significant research agenda that will advance knowledge in ways to eliminate health disparities in the U.S. health care system.

    6. THINK! QUEER Series / September 11 in NYC
    Queers for Economic Justice, Causes in Common, The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center, and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute Present the THINK! QUEER Series: "Good Genes/Bad Genes: The New "Gay" Science and the LGBT Movement" Thursday, September 11, 2008 6:30 – 9:00PM at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center, 208 West 13th Street (Between 7th & 8th Avenues), New York, NY.

    Were you BORN this way? Does it Matter? Explore whether science and public health attempts to explain "queer" identity will help LGBTQ movements for justice, or do more harm than good.

    Moderated by Kenyon Farrow, QEJ, the confirmed panelists include:

    • Jaime Grant, Director, National Gay & Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute
    • Sel J. Hwahng, Research Investigator, Transgender Project, National Development & Research Institutes
    • Nancy Ordover, Author, "American Eugenics: Race, Queer Anatomy & the Science of Nationalism"
    • Rebecca Young, Ass't Professor, of Women's Studies, Barnard College
    The series is free and open to the public and refreshments will be served. For More Information visit the Center’s web site at http://www.gaycenter.org/node/1732 or contact Kenyon Farrow at 212.564.3608 ext.15 or kenyon@q4ej.org.

    7. SAGE’s Fourth National Conference on LGBT Aging October 12 – 14, 2008
    SAGE’s Fourth National Conference on LGBT Aging, “It’s About Time: LGBT Aging in a Changing World,” sponsored by AARP, October 12 – 14, 2008, offers resources, information, tools, insights, and networking opportunities to effectively address what LGBT aging will look like in the 21st century. Over 75 sessions are scheduled in the areas of service delivery, program development, health & wellness, spirituality and faith issues, policy shifts, cultural competency training, advocacy, current research trends, sexuality, access challenges, long term care, housing, and more.

    Who should attend?

    • Professionals in aging service delivery, long term care, programming, case work, health, elder law, housing,policy, and advocacy
    • Researchers in the fields of aging, HIV and other health concerns, and LGBT studies
    • Policymakers in offices for aging, retirement organizations, grantmaking programs and others affecting aging policy and service delivery
    • Professionals, board members and activists in LGBT agencies ready to address an aging participant population; and
    • Others interested in LGBT aging.
    Registration for the conference is $250 ($200 before Sept. 30); registration for the October 12 preconference is $100; discounts available!

    8. Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) Launches campaign emphasizing the significance of fathers in the lives of their gay sons.
    Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) is launching a new campaign, “My Son is My Life” that emphasizes the importance of family support, and in particular, the significance of fathers in the lives of their gay sons. While the campaign speaks directly to fathers of black gay men, it also challenges gay men to think critically about the effect fathers may have on their sense of self and their intimate relationships with other men.

    “Families are critically important to young men of color and this campaign builds on the strength and resiliency of those bonds,” stated Dr. Marjorie Hill, Chief Executive Officer of GMHC. “We recognize the complexities in the lives of young men of color who have sex with men. Thus, HIV prevention efforts should speak to the realities faced by these young men on a daily basis. We cannot simply deliver a message of “use condoms” or “be tested for HIV. It is imperative to address the myriad of underlying factors which contribute to the transmission of HIV, including homophobia, racism, poverty, isolation, stigma, poor body image, and inadequate access to health care.”

    The campaign will be in telephone kiosks throughout New York City. Posters and palm cards will also be distributed to community-based organizations, local businesses, bars and clubs. The cards provide supportive information for parents including the contact information for the organization, PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays).

    “All young people need the strong support of family to grow up healthy and safe,” said Drew Tagliabue, Executive Director of PFLAG New York City. “This is especially vital for young gay men who are at higher risk of contracting HIV. Many parents don't know how to react when a child tells them he is gay. This campaign gets across the message that it is most important for a parent to let their child know they love him no matter what. You can deal with your own feelings later, but it is essential to stay close to your child.”

    On August 2, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced a revised estimate of HIV infections in the United States—53% were among gay and bisexual men. In 2007, New York City health officials indicated a 33% increase of HIV infections among young gay men in the past six years—77% of these new infections were of black and Latino men.

    The campaign was developed by GMHC’s Institute of Gay Men’s Health (IGMH) which focuses on HIV prevention among gay men and other men who have sex with men through education, community-building, social marketing and community-based research. IGMH also addresses prevention of other sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) and the endemic of crystal-methamphetamine use by gay and bisexual men.

    AUGUST 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

  • CDC Releases New HIV Incidence Estimates
  • A Worrisome Step in State Healthcare Reform
  • HHS Awards $49.1 Million to Increase Access to Healthcare Coverage
  • New Study Shows Many Gay Men Do Not Come Out to Their Doctors
  • SMART BRFSS Data and Prevalence Tables Now Available
  • CDC Requesting Consultants or Reviewers for Program Announcements
  • National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Now Accepting Proposals for Creating Change
  • National LGBT Tobacco Summit Now Accepting Registration Forms
  • People for the American Way Start Petition To US Census Bureau
  • Announcement of New Award for Physicians Doing Work on Health Disparities
  • Commonwealth Fund Renames and Retools Health Disparity Funding Opportunity
  • Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Calls for Proposals to Evaluate Health Disparities Interventions
  • Cancer Fellowship Program at National Cancer Institute Available
    1. CDC Releases New HIV Incidence Estimates
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have released new HIV incidence estimates for the United States showing a 40% increase over earlier estimates. These new estimates are based on direct measurements of new HIV infections, the first national HIV incidence surveillance system of its kind in the world, and provide the clearest picture of the number of new HIV infections in a given year available to date.

    People tested were 13 years or older and newly diagnosed with HIV during 2006. The results showed that the estimated number of new infections in 2006 was 56,300, which is a 40% increase over the previous estimate of 40,000. Of that number, nearly half (45%) of infections were among black individuals, and more than half (53%) of new infections were among men who have sex with men. This new official data demonstrates what long-neglected communities already knew: new HIV infections in the most vulnerable communities remained alarming in 2006 and more prevention efforts and funds must be implemented.

    Representative Henry Waxman (D-CA), the chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, commented upon the rising numbers and the need for action, “The HIV epidemic within our own borders is even worse than we had believed. This is a stark reminder of the importance of evidence-based HIV prevention programs. But under this Administration, HIV prevention has been under funded and too often hindered by politics and ideology. There are proven measures that change people’s behavior and reduce HIV transmission. As the total number of people with HIV in the United States has risen, so has the need for these programs.”

    He went on to say “We need to refocus on what works in HIV prevention. We need to move away from policies that hinder those efforts. And we need to understand how to best invest resources in this fight. When Congress returns in September, I will be holding a hearing to investigate these questions.”

    2. A Worrisome Step in State Healthcare Reform
    In the past few months, some states, including Florida and Georgia, began to push uninsured and low-income Americans into high deductible and limited benefit health plans. These two states have drawn attention from other state officials and may be setting off a new type of effort to rescue state budgets that may leave Americans sicker than ever.

    In Florida, 3.8 million uninsured will be offered the Cover Florida Plan that, among other things, allows insurers to offer limited benefit health plans called “Consumer Choice Benefit Insurance Plans.” Participating insurers will be allowed to limit the number of services they offer and cap amounts they pay for benefits. Consumers, on the other hand, will have to pay monthly premiums, capped at $150, without any subsidies available to low-income residents. Coverage will focus on preventive care, office visits and prescription drugs, but there are no requirements that the new plans include specialist care or lengthy hospitals stays. While insurers will not be allowed to reject applicants based on health status, they can exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions. The plan in Georgia is extremely similar. Both of these plans flow from the same flawed philosophy: Americans will use less care if they must pay more out-of-pocket, and less care is a good, bottom line goal.

    3. HHS Awards $49.1 Million to Increase Access to Healthcare Coverage
    The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently awarded $49.1 million to 30 states to increase access to healthcare coverage. The grants are designed to fill the insurance gap for residents who cannot get conventional coverage because of their health status.

    State officials will use the grant money to offset losses incurred by providing coverage for high-risk, low-income populations; these insurance programs are typically operated through state-created non-profit organizations that offer health coverage to individuals with serious medical conditions. The funds also provide support for disease management for chronic conditions and premium subsidies for individuals with lower incomes.

    4. New Study Shows Many Gay Men Do Not Tell Doctors Their Sexuality
    A new study by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has released results from a recent study that shows gay men and men who have sex with men (MSM) are not telling their doctors about their sexual orientation or sexual habits. This is another factor contributing to the rising rates of HIV infections in the gay and MSM communities. When healthcare providers know about their patients’ sexual behavior, they can help prevent infection through testing, counseling and other services, and healthcare providers must work to create a safe environment for disclosure of sexual practices.

    The study showed that of 452 men who have sex with men in New York City, at least 39% had not disclosed their sexual practices to their doctors. Broken out by racial and ethnic group, 60% of African American men, 48% of Hispanic men, 47% of Asian and 19% of white men of those surveyed had not disclosed their sexual practices. The study also showed that men 28 years and older where 17% less likely than younger men to disclose their sexual practices to their doctors.

    For more information and full results of the study, please see the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene [http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/pr2008/pr052-08.shtml]. 5. SMART BRFSS Data and Prevalence Tables Now Available
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Behavioral Surveillance Branch in the Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and Coordinating Center for Health Promotion have announced the joint release of the 2007 Selected Metropolitan/Micropolitan Area Risk Trends (SMART) from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). It now includes data from 2002 through 2007, with prevalence estimates for over 184 metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas (MMSAs), as well 298 counties within those areas.

    6. CDC Requesting Consultants or Reviewers for Program Announcements
    The Prevention Program Branch (PPB) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is seeking consultants and reviewers from diverse communities into the development of HIV prevention programs and funding opportunity announcements. The information consultant and reviewers provide will enable the CDC to ensure the broadest representation and best community input into new funding opportunity announcements. Application must be in by August 29th.

    For more information or to receive the necessary application form, please contact the Coalition at.coalition@lgbthealth.net.

    7. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Now Accepting Proposals for Creating Change
    The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is now accepting session proposals for The 21st National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. The conference aims at building political power of the LGBT movement for social justice. The conference takes place in Denver, Colorado on January 28th-February 1st.

    Proposals on all topics of interest to LGBT movement leaders are welcome. The deadline for proposals is September 30th. For more information about the conference and to obtain online proposal submission materials visit www.creatingchange.org.

    8. National LGBTQ Tobacco Summit Now Accepting Registration Forms
    The 6th Annual National LGBTQ Tobacco Summit is now accepting registration forms for this year’s summit. It will take place in Kansas City, Missouri on September 22-23. There are also a limited number of scholarships available for both adults and youth to help with traveling and accommodation expenses.

    For more information or to register please visit http://lgbttobacco.googlepages.com/2008.

    9. People For the American Way Start Petition to US Census Bureau
    People For the American Way has started a petition to the US Census Bureau over their refusal to allow legally married same-sex couples to define themselves as married. The Bureau has said that for the 2010 Census they will re-code legally married same-sex couples as “not married,” which affects population counts relevant to studies of LGBT health. The petition to the US Census Bureau asks for politics to be taken out of Census gathering and allow those legally married residents of California and Massachusetts, the only states thus far practicing same-sex marriage, be counted accurately in their state statistics.

    To sign the petition, please go to: http://www.kintera.org/site/apps/ka/ct/contactcustom.asp?c=feIJKQMEF&b=4356265

    10. Announcement of New Award for Physicians Doing Work with Health Disparities
    The Joseph H. Kanter Prize for physicians is a new annual award for a US physician who has contributed significantly to enhancing the delivery of healthcare in the nation by diminishing existing healthcare disparities. The first physician to receive this honor will be granted the $100,000 prize in the spring of 2009.

    To learn more about the Kanter Prize, nomination procedures and the designated medical organizations selected to submit a nominee to become the first Joseph H. Kanter Prize laureate, please visit: http://www.healthlegacy.org/

    11. Commonwealth Fund Renames and Retools Health Disparity Funding Opportunity
    The Commonwealth Fund has modified their program on quality of care for underserved populations, which is now known as the Program on Healthcare Disparities. The name was changed to better reflect the new goals of the program. The program now focuses on improving the performance of safety-net hospitals and ambulatory care clinics serving large numbers of low-income and minority patients.

    12. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Calls for Proposals to Evaluate Health Disparities Interventions
    The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has launched their third call for proposals through their Finding Answers program that focuses on evaluating health disparities interventions. The program evaluates interventions with the potential to reduce racial and ethnic healthcare disparities in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, depression and diabetes. Finding Answers seeks proposals that evaluate policy, organizational, provider, patient or community focused interventions. Proposals from community-based organizations, employers and health plans are also encouraged. The grants will range from $100,000 to $275,000 and are due by September 18th.

    For more information and how to apply, please visit http://www.solvingdisparities.org/media/file/cfp_FindingAnswers3.pdf.

    13. Cancer Fellowship Program at National Cancer Institute Available
    The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is now accepting applications for their 2009 cancer fellowship program. The program provides postdoctoral training opportunities in public health and mentored research with investigators at the NCI. To be eligible, applicants must possess an M.D., Ph.D., J.D., or other doctoral degree in a related discipline (e.g., epidemiology, biostatistics, ethics, philosophy, or the biomedical, nutritional, public health, social or behavioral sciences) or must be enrolled in an accredited doctoral degree program and fulfill all degree requirements by June 22, 2009. The deadline for applications is September 1st.

    JULY 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. CDC Releases New YRBSS Data
    2. Health Care Disparity Study Released by Dartmouth University
    3. Massachusetts Health Care Reform One-Year Later
    4. NASTAD Study on Black Gay Men and HIV/AIDS Results Released
    5. Task Force Questions Critical Appointments to American Psychiatric Association
    6. Utah HIV/AIDS Group Rejects Federal Funding
    7. San Francisco AIDS Foundation Releases Behavioral Intervention Study
    8. Study on Internet Based Partner Notification
    9. Online Participants Needed in a New HIV/AIDS Survey
    10. Congress Holds First Ever Hearing on Transgender Employment Discrimination
    11. Harvard School of Public Health Makes Suggestions for the Next US President
    12. House Subcommittee Approves $1.4 Million for Development of National AIDS Strategy
    13. Kaiser Foundation Finds 1 in 4 Americans Struggling with Healthcare Costs
    14. National Latino AIDS Council Releases HIV/AIDS Policy Recommendations
    15. New Information on Methamphetamine Use and Abuse Prevention
    16. Saban Research Institute Completes Study on Young Men Who Have Sex with Men
    17. SAMHSA and the Homeless Resource Center Release Information on LGBTQI2-S Youth
    18. Association for Community Health Improvement Calling for Proposals
    19. LGBTQ Anti-Tobacco Summit
    20. Robert Wood Johnson and Center for Creative Leadership Accepting Applications
    21. California Breast Cancer Research Program Announces Grant Opportunities
    22. Johnson and Johnson Arts in Healthcare Grant
    23. National Cancer Institute Announces New Positions
    24. National Council of La Raza Conducting Vice President Search
    25. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force LGBT Fellowship Opportunities
    26. National LGBT Tobacco Control Network Seeking a Project Manager
    27. STD Disparities Program Coordinator Opening at the CDC

    1. CDC Releases New YRBSS Data
     The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released the 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS), which tracks different health risk behaviors in every state and the District of Columbia. The results involving sexual behavior have produced some alarming numbers. For example, in 2007, 47.8% of students reported ever having sexual intercourse as opposed to 46.8% in 2005. Even more worrisome, condom use is on the decline, with only 61.5% of students using condoms in 2007, down from the 62.8% in 2005.

    Although the information is broken down in racial and gender categories, there are no questions or categories for LGBT youth on the national level. To view the full results of the survey, and to see the results from specific locations and previous years, please visit the CDC web site: http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/yrbs/index.htm

    2. Health Care Disparity Study Released by Dartmouth University
    A recent study released by Dartmouth University has closely examined health disparities between races and regions. A variety of health statistics were complied on a state-by-state basis. For example, in California, 48% of black women had received mammograms while 60% of white women had. In Louisiana, African Americans had a rate of leg amputations of 6 per 1,000 and whites 1.3 per 1,000. African Americans in Nevada had leg amputations at a rate of 2 per 1,000 and whites at a rate of 0.2 per 1,000. All the information the study provided demonstrates that huge gaps exist racially and regionally in health care.

    The study has led to a three-year, $300 million dollar project announced by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to narrow health care disparities between race and region. The areas selected to receive the money are located in Ohio, California, Maine, Missouri, Minnesota, Seattle, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New York, Oregon and Wisconsin. One of the organizers of the new project, Dr. John R. Lumpkin, explained “We want to build a template in each of these communities that will teach America how to improve health care quality in a dramatic way.”

    To learn more about the study and results please visit the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation web site: http://www.rwjf.org/pr/product.jsp?id=30951

    3. Massachusetts Health Care Reform One-Year Later
    The Urban Institute has released a review on Massachusetts’ new health care reform one-year after its implementation. This review highlights the major successes of the plan as well as its problems. The study showed that the number of uninsured residents had been cut almost in half, with roughly 600,000 uninsured residents before the reforms and around 355,000 uninsured currently living in Massachusetts. Some of the criticisms of the plan were that costs involved will continue to increase and that there has been no reduction in emergency room visits.

    To learn more about Massachusetts health care reform and its successes and obstacles please visit http://www.progressivestates.org/

    4. NASTAD Study on Black Gay Men and HIV/AIDS Results Released
    The results and conclusions for the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) study on black gay and bisexual men and black MSM are now available online. The study was done in order to inform a plan of action to confront the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the black gay and bisexual men and black MSM community. The study involved more than 70 health departments as well as community stakeholders from 14 jurisdictions across the country.

    The study documents critical information about barriers, facilitators, funding and relationships in this vulnerable population. It highlights the current failures of health departments to design programs specifically for black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. It also discusses the lack of cooperation between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), health departments, and community based organizations as well as the strained relationship between white gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men and their black counterparts.

    To view the entire summary, visit http://www.nastad.org

    5. Task Force Questions Critical Appointments to American Psychiatric Association
    The National Gay and Lesbian Task force is questioning the appointment of Kenneth Zucker, Ph.D. and Ray Blanchard, Ph.D. to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Committee on Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders. Dr. Zucker is the new chair of the committee for the revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) and Dr. Blanchard is to serve as a committee member on the same project.

    The reasons for questioning these two new appointments stem from previous comments and actions from both doctors. Dr. Zucker built his reputation on the position that children can be directed away from nonconforming gender expression via therapy, and Dr. Blanchard has a long list of articles pathologizing commonplace expressions of sexuality and gender. In a recent statement Rea Carey, the Acting Executive Director of the Task Force, expressed her concern that these appointments are out of step with how doctors and other health professionals think about transgender people and gender variance. Carey commented that “It is extremely disappointing and disturbing that the APA appears to be failing in keeping up with the times when it comes to serving the needs of transgender adults and gender-variant children."

    To view the Task Force’s statement, please go to http://thetaskforce.org/press/releases/PR_052808

    6. Utah HIV/AIDS Group Rejects Federal Funding
    The Utah AIDS Foundation announced its rejection of federal funding from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because of issues surrounding prevention advertisements. The CDC money in question funded a new advertisement created by the Utah group to promote general condom use. With alarming and ever rising HIV/AIDS infections in the men who have sex with men (MSM) community, however, the group created ads to specifically reach MSM.

    The CDC deemed the Utah AIDS Foundation advertisements unacceptable based on their content. In order to keep the $87,000 grant, Utah AIDS Foundation must redo the ads. By ignoring the CDC’s demand, the foundation effectively rejected their funding.

    7. San Francisco AIDS Foundation Releases Behavioral Intervention Study
    The San Francisco AIDS Foundation has released a study on the effectiveness of behavioral interventions for reducing HIV risk and transmission throughout the United States. The experts at SFAF compiled a list of the most effective types of behavioral interventions with respect to three groups: heterosexual adults and youth, drug users, and men who have sex with men. These prevention interventions focus on HIV awareness and harm reduction education. It has been estimated that between 1987 and 2000 these prevention programs has averted between 204,000 and 1,585,500 HIV infections. Proving that continued progress and expansion of successful behavioral interventions is key in reducing HIV infection rates.

    To view the results please visit the San Francisco AIDS Foundation web site: http://www.sfaf.org/files/site1/asset/sfaf-hiv-evidence-report-may-2008.pdf

    8. Study On Internet Based Partner Notification
    As the Internet continues to grow in popularity as a tool for gay and bisexual people to find partners, a study is looking at how the Internet may also be used for STI-risk notification purposes. In an article in the San Francisco Chronicle, several researchers have conducted a study in regards to partner notification of STIs and HIV/AIDS. Currently there are three main methods for partner notification: provider referral, partner referral, and contact referral. The purpose of the study was to test the possibility of adding a new Internet-based partner notification system. The results show that over 80% of the gay and bisexual community surveyed on-line is receptive to this idea and that they too would use such a system to notify partner they had met on-line.

    9. Online Participants Needed in a New HIV/AIDS Survey
    The Community Advocating Emergency AIDS Relief (CAEAR) Coalition and the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA) are sponsoring a survey to gather information about access to medical care and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The survey is for people living with HIV/AIDS. The study can remain anonymous if the participant chooses or they can fill out their name and contact information at the end of the survey if they wish to be contact about how to be involved in HIV/AIDS advocacy efforts.

    10. Congress Holds First Ever Hearing on Transgender Employment Discrimination
    On June 27 the U.S. House of Representatives held their first hearing focusing exclusively on transgender employment discrimination. The groundbreaking hearing involved many advocates and leaders in the transgender community as well as people whose lives have been affected by employment discrimination. Speakers included Congressperson Tammy Baldwin (D-WI); Diego Sanchez, the Director of Public Relations and External Affairs for AIDS Action; Sabrina Marcus Taraboletti, a former aerospace engineer; Shannon Minter, Legal Director for the National Center for Lesbian Rights; Colonel Diane Schroer, retired U.S. Army; and Bill Hendrix, Dow Product Stewardship Specialist, Dow Agro Sciences LLC.

    The hearing examined the possibility of prohibiting employment discrimination based on gender identity. Mara Keisling Executive Director of the National Center for Transgender Equality stated, “The idea of Congress holding a hearing [on transgender issues] was a huge long shot. It shows that Congress understands that this is a significant problem. It’s progress—it’s not enough progress and it’s not fast enough, but it’s progress.”

    For more on the hearing and to read the testimony of the participants, including the Coalition, please visit the National Center for Transgender Equality at: http://www.nctequality.org/

    11. Harvard School of Public Health Makes Suggestions for the Next U.S. President
    Seven faculty members at the Harvard School of Public Health have created web materials including video discussions on ways the next U.S. President can work to eliminate health disparities in the American healthcare system. Each faculty member tackles a different issue. They argued for the next president to join the global fight against tobacco, support human rights movements, desegregate the American healthcare system, encourage investments in long-term health, champion social and economic equality, extend a safety net to immigrant families and improving early childhood development.

    To learn more about all these issues and what the next U.S. President will be in a position to change about the healthcare system please visit http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hphr/spr08/advice7ways.html

    12. House Subcommittee Approves $1.4 Million for Development of National AIDS Strategy
    On June 17 the U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Appropriations Subcommittee approved a bill that includes $1.4 million for the White House Office of National AIDS Policy for the development of a National AIDS Strategy. Chief Executive Officer of Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) Marjorie Hill stated, “Twenty-seven years into the AIDS epidemic, the United States does not have a National AIDS Strategy that coordinates efforts across agencies and quantifies progress toward measurable outcomes. This is one critical reason why we have not been able to bring down the number of new HIV infections here at home. The U.S. requires poorer, developing world countries like Botswana and Vietnam to have a National AIDS Strategy in order to receive U.S. aid, yet we do not have a strategy ourselves. We commend Chairman Serrano and the Financial Services Subcommittee for taking this important first step toward creating and implementing a National AIDS Strategy.”

    The funding will support six full-time staff, meeting expenses, regional consultations, and communications costs to develop and oversee the implementation of a National AIDS Strategy. The National Coalition for LGBT Health is proud to be a supporter of the National AIDS Strategy in the United States and will help to insure the continued inclusion of the LGBT community in any such strategy. For more information on the National AIDS Strategy, please visit http://www.nationalaidsstrategy.org/

    13. Kaiser Foundation Finds 1 in 4 Americans Struggling with Healthcare Costs
    The latest Kaiser Health Tracking Election 2008 Poll shows that the recent economic downturn continues to create financial problems for most Americans, especially in regards to affording healthcare. Out of 1,206 adults that were surveyed nationally via telephone, 25% stated that paying for healthcare costs is a serious problem for them and their families. Furthermore, Americans view healthcare as an important social investment that should be supported by government and not born by individuals.

    The poll also found that 74% of Democratic voters believe sick and healthy people should share in the collective costs of healthcare while 50% of Republican voters believe the sick should have to carry the burden for themselves and their families. Independent voters lean toward the belief that the costs should be shared, with 57% of those surveyed agreeing with the majority of Democrats.

    To learn more about this and other Kaiser Polls visit the Kaiser Family Foundation at http://www.kff.org/kaiserpolls/h08_posr062508pkg.cfm

    14. National Latino AIDS Council Releases HIV/AIDS Policy Recommendations
    The National Latino AIDS Action Agenda Network (NLAAN) has released their HIV/AIDS federal policy recommendations. The recommendations of the 350 member committee, representing over 120 organizations, include developing a comprehensive National AIDS Strategy reflecting the needs of all affected communities in the U.S., acknowledging the HIV/AIDS crisis in Latino communities and directing agencies within federal jurisdiction to develop concrete strategies to increase access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care to all underrepresented communities. They also suggest the expansion of HIV prevention from an exclusive focus on individual risk and behavior change to include structural approaches that address community vulnerability and build on strengths and resiliency. In particular, they recommend the development of strategies responsive to the structural and environmental factors that drive HIV transmission for Latinos, including developing immigration policies that respect the human rights and protect the health of people living with HIV/AIDS.

    To learn more visit: http://www.latinoaidsagenda.org/

    15. New Information on Methamphetamine Use and Abuse Prevention
    One of the biggest hurdles to addressing methamphetamine use and abuse is the lack of information that exists on effective strategies to curb the distribution, sales, use and harm of the drug. This lack of information makes it extremely difficult for prevention practitioners to select effective strategies, especially at the local level. New findings from the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation show that community methamphetamine prevention can use the public health and safety perspectives applied to other substance abuse prevention strategies with great success. Analysis also suggests that multiple reinforcement prevention interventions may have the greatest potential effectiveness.

    16. Saban Research Institute Completes Study on Young Men Who Have Sex with Men
    The Saban Research Institute recently released the results of their Healthy Young Men’s Study on the heath and well-being of young men who have sex with men (YMSM). The researchers conducted interviews and surveys to gather information about mental and physical health and to better understand the efficacy of current health curriculum and programs in the YMSM community. The study recruited 18-24 year old men living in Los Angeles County who identify themselves as gay, bisexual or as a man who has sex with other men, and included African Americans, Caucasians and Latinos of Mexican decent.

    The survey included questions pertaining to drug and alcohol use and abuse, sexual behavior, healthcare utilization, internalized homophobia, violence/victimization, education and parental acceptance. The results prove what many providers and community members have long known: the programs most successful in decreasing the HIV/AIDS risk and increasing physical and mental health in the adult gay community are not working in the YMSM community. The study revealed that YMSM increasingly are turning to drugs, alcohol and risky sexual behaviors with huge negative affects on both physical and mental health. The study demonstrates that protecting and promoting the health of YMSM requires new programs and different methods of outreach.

    17. SAMHSA and the Homeless Resource Center Release Information on LGBTQI2-S Youth
    The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Homeless Resource Center have released new materials on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex and Two-Spirited (LGBTQI2-S) youth. LGBTQI2-S young people are some of the most vulnerable people in this country; they make up between 20-40% of all homeless people and are more than twice as likely to commit suicide than other homeless populations. The new web site presents statistics and general information about how to effectively provide services and support for LGBTQI2-S youth. The information also includes steps that individuals and organizations can take to help LGBTQI2-S youth and help lower the rapidly rising rates of homelessness. For example, training staff about LGBTQI2-S youth sensitizes them to the issues and posting LGBTQI2-S symbols such as a rainbow flag or safe zone poster in your office or program indicates to young people that yours is a safe space to come for help and support.

    For more information please visit the SAMHSA web site at: http://www.nrchmi.samhsa.gov

    18. Association for Community Health Improvement Calling for Proposals
    The Association for Community Health Improvement is accepting proposals through August 8 for its March 11-13, 2009 national conference in Los Angeles. Conference sessions will address community health assessment, community benefit and health in the social and built environment and help to build the skills of community health leaders. The event features more than 450 professionals from hospitals, health systems, foundations, public health and community health organizations in a gathering that stimulates real change and improvement in how community health programs are planned, delivered and assessed.

    For more information about the conference please visit the Association for Community Health site at: http://www.communityhlth.org/communityhlth/conf2009/annual09.html For information on topic tracks and submission guidelines send questions to: communityhlth@aha.org

    19. LGBTQ Anti-Tobacco Summit
    The 6th annual LGBTQ Anti-Tobacco Summit will take place on September 22 and 23 in Kansas City, MO. The summit offers opportunities to learn about LGBT tobacco control, the best surveillance strategies and what every state, county and city should being doing to decrease tobacco use in the LGBT community. For more information or to help with the planning, e-mail lgbttobacco@gmail.com or visit http://lgbttobacco.googlepages.com/2008

    20. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Center for Creative Leadership Accepting Applications
    The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Center for Creative Leadership are accepting applications for their program Ladder to Leadership: Developing the Next Generation of Community Health Leaders. Ladder to Leadership focuses on developing critical leadership competencies for 270 early- to mid-career professionals through an innovative, 16-month leadership development curriculum. The program will be delivered in nine priority communities on a staggered schedule over the next four years. The development includes face-to-face training sessions, individualized executive coaching and mentoring and team project work. The communities included are Central, NY; Cleveland, OH; Albuquerque, NM; Portland, OR; South and West Tennessee; and Starr County, Texas.

    To learn more about this opportunity, including deadlines, please visit Ladder to Leadership [http://www.laddertoleadership.org].

    21. California Breast Cancer Research Program Announces Grant Opportunities
    The California Breast Cancer Research Program has posted calls for applications for a Special Research Initiatives grant, including environmental and disparities research. The deadline for the one $200,000 grant is July 18. For more information and to access the application please visit http://www.cbcrp.org/apply/sriCall/

    22. Johnson and Johnson Arts in Healthcare Grant
    Johnson and Johnson, working in partnership with the Society for the Arts in Healthcare, is seeking to promote the use of arts to enhance the healthcare experiences for patients, their families and caregivers. Organizations seeking the grant must be a non-profit organization with federal tax-exempt status and organized and operated for charitable purposes or a governmental agency at the state or local level, including education or institutions.

    To learn more about eligibility and application information please visit: http://thesah.org/template/page.cfm?page_id=15#Eligibility

    23. National Cancer Institute Announces New Positions
    The National Cancer Institute’s Center to Reduce Cancer Health Disparities has openings for two new health scientist administrator positions. These are key program director and project officer positions to develop basic, clinical and population-based research and training programs in cancer health disparities. Research and training programs will focus on the cancers that are more serious or prevalent in racial/ethnic minorities and other underserved populations, and on advancing the development of the cancer research continuum for these cancers. The closing date for applications is July 15.

    For more information visit http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/jobsearch.asp?q=NCI-08-272819-DE&salmin=&salmax=&paygrademin=&paygrademax=&FedEmp=N&tm=&sort=rv&vw=d&brd=3876&ss=0&FedPub=Y&SUBMIT1.x=0&SUBMIT1.y=0

    24. National Council of La Raza Conducting Vice President Search
    The National Council of La Raza’s Institute for Hispanic Health (IHH) is searching for a new Vice President. The position will have overall strategic and operational responsibility for the IHH program areas, which include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, HIV/AIDS/STDs, Medicare, Alzheimer's, genetics, reproductive health, and nutrition and exercise. To learn about all of the responsibilities, qualifications and requirements please register, free of charge and apply online or contact Michelle Levin. To learn more about the National Council of La Raza visit their web site at http://www.nclr.org/

    25. National Gay and Lesbian Task Force LGBT Fellowship Opportunities
    The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is now accepting applications for its 2008–2009 LGBT Fellows Program at the Policy Institute, a leading think tank on LGBT issues. The fellowship offers full-time support for two researchers of color at different career stages. The junior scholar will be a newly minted Ph.D. or someone in the early career stages who remains untenured. Appropriately qualified independent researchers may also be considered. For the senior scholar fellowship, the Policy Institute is seeking a more advanced independent researcher or someone who is in an advanced non-tenured or tenured university position. Fellows’ projects will serve to advance the Policy Institute’s primary goals of equipping grassroots leaders with essential tools in the struggle to gain LGBT political power and creating new movement conversations and perspectives that lead to innovative strategies and fresh possibilities for change-makers.

    The application deadline is August 8 and for more information visit http://www.fenwayhealth.org/site/PageServer?pagename=FCHC_abt_about_employment

    26. National LGBT Tobacco Control Network Seeking a Project Manager
    The National LGBT Tobacco Control Network is searching for a new project manager. Typical duties include: supervising team activities and managing day-to-day operations, running weekly team meetings and writing activity reports, executing and monitoring progress on multiple project action plans, providing technical assistance related to tobacco control, and overseeing compliance on all funder guidelines, multiple project budget management and funder communication.

    To learn more about the position’s duties and requirements and download the application visit http://www.fenwayhealth.org/site/PageServer?pagename=FCHC_abt_about_employment

    27. STD Disparities Program Coordinator Opening at the CDC
    The National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), an extension of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has a new position available as an STD disparities program coordinator. The incumbent will act in a leadership role and serves as a senior public health advisor responsible for planning, formulating, analyzing, evaluating and/or implementing Division of STD Prevention (DSTDP) programs and policies aimed at reducing STD disparities. The position is located in Atlanta, Georgia and the application deadline is July 7.

    JUNE 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. CDC Continues to Exclude MSM and Other Groups In Prevention Efforts
    2. Michigan Court Denies LGBT Partners Health Benefits
    3. GLMA and the HRC Releases the 2008 Healthcare Equality Index
    4. Kaiser Family Foundation Releases New Statistics on HIV/AIDS
    5. NASTAD Releases Issue Brief No. 3 on HIV Prevention for Black MSM
    6. SIECUS Fact Sheet on the U.S. Presidential Candidates
    7. FAPP Looking for Researchers to Take Part in NIH Funding Survey
    8. iQuit Treatment and Counseling for Smokers in the LGBT Community
    9. National Gay Man’s Health Summit
    10. University of Pittsburg Now Offering LGBT Health and Wellness Degree
    11. AAHIVM Announces Launch of 2008 Credentialing Program
    12. Columbia University Seeking Research Program Coordinator
    13. Health Department Medical Director Position in Portland, Oregon
    1. CDC Continues to Exclude MSM and Other Groups In Prevention Efforts
    The AIDS Institute recently assessed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) programs on HIV prevention interventions and issued a new report highlighting the gaps in CDC supported programming. The AIDS Institute reviewed the CDC’s recently updated 2007 Compendium of Evidence-Based Interventions, which sets forth the interventions for different target populations to be implemented in community-based settings. The AIDS Institute points out that although the CDC is beginning to expand their categories of target populations, some of those at highest risk for HIV/AIDS remain neglected, including men who have sex with men, sex workers, people over the age of 50, veterans and the homeless. The ongoing neglect of people in these populations fails to reflect the reality of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in America therefore also failing to help these communities. The assessment concludes that prevention efforts need more funding and better development throughout the country. [For more information on the AIDS Institute’s report please visit their web site at http://www.theaidsinstitute.org/

    2. Michigan Court Denies LGBT Partners Health Benefits
    In a 5 to 2 ruling, the Michigan State Supreme Court reaffirmed its previous decision stating that local governments and state universities cannot offer health insurance to the partners of gay and lesbian workers. This ruling also reaffirms Michigan ’s ban on same-sex marriage and leaves at least 375 same-sex couples currently receiving health benefits with an uncertain future.

    3. GLMA and HRC Release the 2008 Healthcare Equality Index
    The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) along with the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) has produced their second annual Healthcare Equality Index. The index rates 88 U.S. hospitals on their policies and practices related to the LGBT community. Focus areas include patient non-discrimination, hospital visitation, partners’ decision making, cultural competence training and employment policies.

    The study focuses on many hospitals that are at the forefront of LGBT issues such as allowing the same visitation rights to LGBT partners as heterosexual partners and ensuring that LGBT patients get the same level of care as all other patients. The index is attempting to make all hospitals aware of LGBT issues in healthcare and to address current policies. [Go to http://www.hrc.org/issues/hei.asp to view the full report and access its findings.

    4. Kaiser Family Foundation Releases New Statistics on HIV/AIDS
    The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) is continuing to expand their new internet-based Kaiser Fast Facts, providing the public direct access to data and information about the nation’s health care system and programs. The HIV/AIDS subsection includes facts and figures concerning access to treatment, funding, infection rates, and much more. For example, according to the KFF website, only 4% of the 23.3 billion in federal funding for HIV/AIDS is spent on prevention. The statistics also include new information about that highlights persistent health disparities based on race: of new AIDS cases, 66% of women and 43% of men diagnosed are black. [To learn more please visit the Kaiser Family Foundation at http://facts.kff.org/.

    5. NASTAD Releases Issue Brief No. 3 on HIV Prevention for Black MSM
    The National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) has released its third brief in a series pertaining to HIV prevention within the black gay, bisexualand men who have sex with men communities. The brief contains interviews with black men from all over the United States , including samples from New York , North Carolina , and Texas . The interviews took place at more than 70 different health departments throughout the country and provide great insight to the rising epidemic of HIV infection in the black gay and bisexual men and MSM communities.

    The brief focuses on major factors including barriers, facilitators, funding problems, relationships, unique issues and what can be done in the future. One aspect of the study deals with how culturally black gay and bisexual men feel ignored and disrespected by mainstream white LGBT advocacy groups. It also describes how each state and jurisdictions have their own set of problems and obstacles. For example, some interviewees noted that in their area if you lived in the gay community it is not ok to be black and if you live in the black community it is not ok to be gay, leaving them no place to truly be themselves and feel comfortable.

    After the completion of the study, each of the participating jurisdictions and health worked with NASTAD staff to create specific plans and goals for each community. To learn more about the results and order a copy of the Issue Brief, contact Terrance Moore of NASTAD [tmoore@NASTAD.org] or visit NASTAD's web site at http://www.nastad.org/.

    6. SIECUS Fact Sheet on the U.S. Presidential Candidates
    The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) has compiled the plans of Presidential hopefuls for HIV prevention, comprehensive sexuality education and the candidates’ national HIV/AIDS strategy. To view the fact sheet visit the SIECUS web site at http://www.siecus.org/.

    7. FAPP Looking for Researchers to Take Part in NIH Funding Survey
    The Research Working Group of the Federal AIDS Policy Partnership (FAPP) has created a survey to collect more information about how flat funding levels are impacting the scientific community. FAPP asks that any U.S. researchers with past or current experience applying for National Institute of Health (NIH) funding to please visit the link and complete the survey before Monday, June 30th. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes and will be used to encourage Congress to increase funding for NIH and other federal sources of research support. The link for the survey is at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=HzMwPpVMoFLZWEupivoGhw_3d_3d.

    8. iQuit Treatment and Counseling for Smokers in the LGBT Community
    A new project called iQuit uses internet-based smoking treatment and telephone counseling service specifically for the LGBT community to deal with increasing smoking rates in the community and to combat the exclusion of LGBT people from traditional anti-smoking programs. To learn more about the program and how you might be able to take part visit the web site at https://www.iquit.medschool.ucsf.edu/.

    9. National Gay Man’s Health Summit
    The 2008 National Gay Men’s Health Summit will be held in Seattle , Washington from October 17-21. Local, national and international leaders will gather to discuss current issues facing gay men’s health and liberation. The summit will help to build relationships across racial, generational, geographic and political lines to create a more unified community. The summit will target men who are gay, bisexual, queer, have sex with men and those who are transgender-identified. For more information on the summit please visit the Summit 's web site at http://gmhs2008.org/ or e-mail them at: gmhs2008@gaycity.org.

    10. University of Pittsburg Now Offering LGBT Health and Wellness Degree
    In order to train researchers and public health officials to work with LGBT communities, the University of Pittsburgh ’s Graduate School of Public Health now offers a certificate program in LGBT Health and Wellness. The program is designed for post-baccalaureate students, graduate students and professionals who wish to develop the skills necessary to effectively address LGBT health disparities and issues.

    The Center for the Research on Health and Sexual Orientation at the University of Pittsburgh offers additional opportunities to work in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment with leaders in LGBT healthcare across the nation. For more information you can visit the web site at http://www.publichealth.pitt.edu/perspective.php?pageID=47.

    11. AAHIVM Announces Launch of 2008 Credentialing Program
    The American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM) is now accepting applications from physicians, nurse practitioners and physicians’ assistants who wish to receive an HIV Specialist designation upon completion of all program requirements.

    The application period is from May 19th- June 30th and the exam period will be from August 15th- September 30th. If you would like more information please visit the web site at: http://www.aahivm.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=632&Itemid=129.

    12. Columbia University Seeking Research Program Coordinator
    The Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University is looking for a Research Program Coordinator to serve as the Field Director for the Community Health Advisory & Information Network Project (CHAIN). This project is an ongoing, longitudinal survey of individuals living with HIV/AIDS in New York City and its northern suburban counties.

    The goal of the survey is to provide data on the need for health and social services and review of current health services that is relevant to policy analysis and change. Some of the responsibilities include recruitment, supervision of field staff, document data collecting, making presentations to professional and community audiences, and assisting with data analysis and report writing among others. To learn more visit this web site: http://www.nyhiv.com/data_chain.html

    MAY 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. Sex Diseases in Many Gay Men Go Unfound, Experts Say
    2. Participants Sought for Three New Studies
    3. Drug Policy Alliance Releases Report on “Four Pillars” Of Methamphetamine Abuse
    4. STDs In Gay Men Often Not Diagnosed
    5. Article Examines Stigma Regarding Coverage of Methamphetamine
    6. NASTAD Report Highlights Approaches to HIV/AIDS Services in Native American Communities
    7. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Releases Overcoming Obstacles to Health
    8. The Advocate Looking for Outstanding LGBT Graduates
    9. Conference on Race, Sex, Power: New Movements in Black and Latina/o Sexualities
    10. Multicultural Action Center Scholarship for NAMI 2008 Convention
    11. National Cancer Institute Seeking Members of the Consumer Liaison Group
    12. Registraion Now Open for AIDSWatch 2008
    13. Project Coordinator Open at the National LGBT Tobacco Control Network
    1. Sex Diseases in Many Gay Men Go Unfound, Experts Say
    Many cases of sexually transmitted diseases are escaping detection because gay men are not being tested each year as advised, federal health officials said Wednesday. And if the men do show up, the officials added, many doctors and clinics are not following screening recommendations. But more cases could be detected if the government approved new ways to use a type of DNA test that is already on the market, the officials and researchers said in a news conference at a scientific meeting in Chicago. They said the test, used in new ways, could detect twice as many cases of gonorrhea and chlamydia as standard tests. Those diseases, along with syphilis, whose incidence continues to increase, are “a major threat to gay and bisexual men’s health,” said Dr. Kevin Fenton, a top official of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Fenton noted that such diseases increased the risk of contracting and spreading H.I.V., the virus that causes AIDS.

    Screening for sexually transmitted infections is a critical part of medical care for sexually active men. The C.D.C. recommends annual blood tests for H.I.V. and syphilis, and other tests for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Gonorrhea tests should include specimens from all potential sites of exposure — throat, genitals and rectum — because identifying and treating all such infections is essential for preventing spread of the disease. “There are circumstances where the recommendations are not being followed,” said Dr. John M. Douglas Jr., who directs the Division of S.T.D. Prevention at the disease control centers.

    Dr. Douglas added that some doctors did not recognize the problem while others seemed to think “that maybe the guidelines do not apply to my patient population.” Supporting evidence came from C.D.C. researchers, who reported three studies at the meeting showing that the screening rates were too low. Dr. Kristen Mahle’s study found that among gay men who showed no symptoms of gonorrhea, more than a third of rectal infections with the disease, and more than a quarter of throat infections, were missed because many were not tested at all anatomical sites of recent exposure. Dr. Eric Tai’s study surveyed non-H.I.V.-positive gay men in 15 cities from 2003 to 2005 and found that only 39 percent reported having been tested for syphilis, and only 36 percent for gonorrhea. Dr. Karen Hoover found that while doctors tested 82 percent of H.I.V.-positive gay men in eight cities for syphilis in 2005, they tested 22 percent or fewer for gonorrhea and chlamydia.

    One problem is that public health departments that run sexual disease clinics do not have adequate staffs and budgets to do comprehensive testing. “Let’s be honest, resources are a challenge at a federal, state and local level,” said Dr. Douglas, of the disease control centers. “We are trying to be as innovative as we can with public health resources,” but “we need help from others.”

    Another problem is that newer tests are not being used as much as they should be, Dr. Douglas said. The DNA test that Dr. Douglas and others described as promising is called NAAT, for nucleic acid amplification test. It is generally more accurate and easier to use, and it can detect at least twice as many gonorrhea and chlamydia infections in the throat and rectum, according to studies by Dr. Julius Schachter of the University of California, San Francisco, and others. Moreover, it is faster than the traditional bacterial culture tests.

    The Food and Drug Administration has approved three NAATs to screen for gonorrhea and chlamydia in the genitalia, but not the throat or rectum. Dr. Schachter’s team, which included the San Francisco Department of Public Health, sought to determine whether the marketed NAATs were also effective in throat and rectal screening.

    The C.D.C. is working with the food and drug agency and with test manufacturers to gather, analyze and coordinate the submission of data for federal approval of NAATs for use in the throat and rectum. The San Francisco Department of Public Health has conducted a study that met F.D.A. requirements for such use. Now the health department uses NAATs to test for chlamydia and gonorrhea at all three anatomic sites.

    2. Participants Sought for Three New Studies

      Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3)
      Developed by The American Cancer Society, the purpose of CPS-3 is to better understand the lifestyle, behavioral, environmental and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer and to ultimately eliminate cancer as a major health problem for this and future generations. The ultimate goal is to enroll 500,000 adults from various racial/ethnic backgrounds from across the U.S. Men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 years who have no personal history of cancer are invited to join. We are actively reaching out to the LGBT community.

      Participants will be followed for at least 20 years. You will be contacted every two years with mailed questionnaires to answer. While you may be in the study for many years, we expect the amount of time it will take you to answer a questionnaire to be minimal (about 45 minutes for the follow-ups) For more information, email cps3@cancer.org or go to http://www.cancer.org/docroot/RES/RES_6_6.asp or call toll-free 1-888-604-5888.

      Sexual Wellbeing in Breast Cancer Survivors
      Researchers at Boston University are seeking lesbian, bisexual women and women who partner with women for a study on sexual wellbeing and breast cancer survivorship. Participants will receive $20 for the completion of a one-time mail survey involving questions about sexual health, physical health and relationship status.

      At this time, they are enrolling lesbian and bisexual women who have had a breast cancer diagnosis. They are also enrolling lesbian and bisexual women over the age of 40 who have not had a breast cancer diagnosis. Participation requires 5 minutes for a brief screening interview by phone and approximately 30 minutes to complete a survey; materials are provided for mailing the survey back to Boston University. For more information, contact Mairead Sullivan at 877-414-1399 or women@bu.edu

      How Breast Cancer Patients Navigate Fertility Concerns and Treatment Options
      Northwestern University's Department of Sociology invites women who have been diagnosed with or who have had breast cancer to participate in an interview-based study. Participants will be interviewed about their fertility concerns, family life and future family plans. The project will also look at how doctors and patients discuss these issues. The findings will help to develop educational materials for physicians and patients regarding the concerns, experiences and treatment options related to cancer-related infertility among women with breast cancer.

      All women between the ages of 18 to 40 with a history of breast cancer are eligible (both pre and post treatment). A key concern of the project is that women from all backgrounds, racial/ethnic groups and sexual orientations are represented. Participation will involve a 60-90 minute phone interview. For more information, contact Dr. Karrie Ann Snyder, karrie-snyder@northwestern.edu or 847/467-0517

    3. Drug Policy Alliance Releases Report on “Four Pillars” Of Methamphetamine Abuse
    The Drug Policy Alliance has released A Four Pillars Approach to Methamphetamine: Policies for Effective Drug Prevention, Treatment, Policing and Harm Reduction. Four locations are praised for their innovative approaches: California, New Mexico, Utah and Vancouver. In addition to the aforementioned areas, the report includes information for subpopulations, including gay men. The report is available at http://www.drugpolicy.org/docUploads/FourPillarsMethamphetamine.pdf

    4. STDs In Gay Men Often Not Diagnosed
    A recent New York Times article reported that officials from the CDC report that many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in gay men are not being detected because gay men are not being going to their healthcare provider annually and, when they do go, their providers are not properly screening them. The officials recommended that the government approve new ways to use existing STD tests, that men are tested annually and the healthcare providers do complete screenings. The officials also stated that testing must be done at all sites of exposure: throat, genitals and rectum.

    Officials also discussed the need for more resources for outreach, testing and treatment. “Let’s be honest, resources are a challenge at a federal, state and local level,” said Dr. John M. Douglas Jr., who directs the Division of STD Prevention at the CDC.

    5. Article Examines Stigma Regarding Coverage of Methamphetamine
    An article in the March 2008 edition of the American Journal of Men's Health by Joseph Schwartz and Julie L. Andsager examines differences in the coverage of methamphetamine depending on the sexual orientation of the users. They analyzed stories from 13 urban newspapers in cities with large populations of gay men. In stories featuring gay men, sexual health was the dominant frame closely followed by crime. In stories featuring heterosexuals, crime was the main focus. To view the article, please see the American Journal of Men's Health.

    6. NASTAD Report Highlights Approaches to HIV/AIDS Services in Native American Communities
    On March 20, the National Association of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) released Technical Assistance Report: Activities to Address HIV/AIDS in Native American Communities. This report is in response to the persistent need to address HIV/AIDS in Native American communities. The report includes strategies and approaches state health departments and Native American communities have undertaken to address key issues impacting the provision of HIV/AIDS services in Native American communities and will form the basis for ongoing sharing via NASTAD’s online resource bank. The full report is available online at http://nastad.org/Docs/Public/InFocus/2008324_NA_Report_FINAL_032408.pdf

    7. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Releases Overcoming Obstacles to Health
    The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has released a report, titled Overcoming Obstacles to Health, that presents a framework for the RWJF’s Commission to Build a Healthier America. The Commission is expected to release a report in spring of 2009 recommending public and private policies and programs to improve health across income, education, socioeconomic and racial/ethnic groups. Overcoming Obstacles to Health focuses on the impact of health disparities across the lifespan and examines steps beyond medical care in impacting these disparities. To view the report, please go to the Commission website.

    8. The Advocate Looking for Outstanding LGBT Graduates
    The Advocate is looking for five outstanding LGBT graduates who are creating post-graduate projects and organizations designed to benefit the LGBT community. The Advocate’s Pride issue will highlight the five winners and their projects. Applications should include the following information: student’s name, school, area of study (if applicable) and answer these questions: what is the project; how will it make an impact on the LGBT community; what is the time frame for getting this project up and running; and how will the student’s project be funded? To enter or for more information, please contact graduates@advocate.com. The deadline is April 11, 2008.

    9. Conference on Race, Sex, Power: New Movements in Black and Latina/o Sexualities
    Faculty from nine universities and colleges will hold the largest ever conference on black and Latina/o sexuality on April 11-12 at the University of Illinois at Chicago. “Race, Sex, Power: New Movements in Black and Latina/o Sexualities,” the culmination of more than two years of planning, will bring together academics, activists and artists to address topics ranging from intimacy and desire to HIV/AIDS and teen pregnancy to humor and Hip Hop.

    Sponsored by the participating universities with major funding from the Ford and Arcus Foundations, “Race, Sex, Power” aims to set a new agenda for studying, organizing, writing, and developing policy about sexuality. The conference program takes sexuality and race in all their complexity. Panels and speakers selected from hundreds of submissions will cover, among other things: media, migration and immigration, religion and spirituality, sexual tourism, reproductive rights, transgender, community organizing, gay and lesbian civil rights, poverty, social class, age and the sex industry.

    For more information, please see the conference website or contact racesexpower08@gmail.com.

    10. Multicultural Action Center Scholarship for NAMI 2008 Convention
    The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) Multicultural Action Center is happy to announce the availability of financial support to consumers and family members who would like to participate in the NAMI Annual Convention from June 13 to 16 in Orlando, Florida. The purpose of the scholarships is to provide support for NAMI members with interest in multicultural issues to attend the Convention.

    Scholarships will be awarded up to $500 to cover the Convention registration fee and a portion of your airfare or hotel. Please note that the $500 stipend will cover only a portion of total convention costs. Scholarship amounts will be reimbursed upon submission of original receipts (Convention registration, airfare, or hotel) AFTER the Convention.

    All scholarship recipients are required to submit a 1-page Convention report. The deadline for submitting scholarship reimbursements is Monday June 30. Simply fill out the application form, complete all components and provide one letter of recommendation. Completed applications are due April 10. Contact Marin Swesey at marin@nami.org or 703-600-1108 if you would like a Word version of the application or have any questions. Details about the convention can be found at the convention web site.

    11. National Cancer Institute Seeking Members of the Consumer Liaison Group
    The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is accepting applications for up to six new members of the NCI Director's Consumer Liaison Group (DCLG). The DCLG consists of 16 consumer advocates who are involved in cancer advocacy and who reflect the diversity among those whose lives are affected by cancer. The mission of the DCLG is to advise, assist, consult with and make recommendations to the NCI Director, from the perspective and viewpoint of cancer consumer advocates on a wide variety of issues, programs and research priorities. Applications must be postmarked by April 15, 2008. For more information, including eligibility criteria, please see go to http://mcsv.net/cgi-bin/redir?MCid=atu9tauPY0fhZQVA8iga

    12. Registraion Now Open for AIDSWatch 2008
    April 28-30th is AIDSWatch, the largest annual constituent-based federal HIV/AIDS advocacy and education event. Participants include people living with HIV and AIDS, their families, friends, care providers and other advocates. AIDSWatch is a project of the National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA). To learn more and register go to: http://mcsv.net/cgi-bin/redir?MCid=EGEVMaMKkSfhZQVA8iga

    13. Project Coordinator Open at the National LGBT Tobacco Control Network
    The National LGBT Tobacco Control Network is hiring a project coordinator. Ideal candidate would have great organizing experience, strong interest in fighting Big Tobacco, experience engaging and working with diverse community groups, and a desire to build national leadership skills in this arena.

    Multi-lingual and underrepresented population candidates are encouraged to apply. The position is housed in Fenway Community Health, a Boston area LGBT-focused federally qualified community health center with a $15 million dollar budget, strong research activities and a great staff.

    For application information and position description, please see the Network's website.

    APRIL 2008
    IN THIS ISSUE

    1. Health Week Events Planned for Capital District
    2. Canadian Gay Marriage Recognized in New York State
    3. Survey on Gay and Lesbian Experiences with Health Care
    4. Treatment Admissions for Methamphetamine, Prescription Drug and Marijuana Abuse on the Rise
    5. New Report on Advocating for Rectal Microbicides
    6. The LGBTQ Meaningful Care Conference
    7. NBJC Presents the Power of Us National Conference