Three Populations Knowledge Regarding Nutrition and Health Care for Transgender and Gender Non-Binary (TGGNB) Individuals

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The transgender and gender non-binary (TGGNB) community makes up about 0.6% of the United States population. A 2011 survey showed that 50% of TGGNB individuals report having to teach medical providers about TGGNB care. This research asked how knowledgeable the nutrition and healthcare community and related others are in interacting with the TGGNB population. The first aim compared Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) with a university community and members of the general public with regard to current health and nutrition knowledge related to the TGGNB community. The second aim assessed responses from the general public before and after viewing an educational model. Methods De-identified cross-sectional surveys were conducted in the three communities through REDcap, a secure web application. Participants were directed to REDcap through social media sites and list serves. Questions on the pre/post survey tested the effectiveness of a brief educational module on TGGNB terminology, health monitoring, and health disparities. Results Responses to the surveys included 305 RDNs (experience range 0–10 + years), 73 from general population (20% working in healthcare), and 77 from Bastyr University (provides education for healthcare providers currently undergoing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training). A question concerning the effects of testosterone hormone therapy (HRT) on a lipid panel was asked to collect baseline knowledge among the three communities. Outcomes showed 13.0% correct responses from the Bastyr community, 24.7% from the general population, and 27.3% from RDNs. The pre/post survey found an increase in confidence and knowledge after viewing the module. A question on using correct terminology indicated a 10.0% increase in confidence. A question about lipid panel changes in response to testosterone HRT resulted in a 66.2% increase in knowledge. A question on disordered eating health disparities of TGGNB youth showed a 16.5% increase in knowledge. Conclusions This research highlights limitations in RDNs knowledge in interacting with TGGNB individuals and indicates the benefits of a brief educational module on increasing knowledge and confidence on a target population such as the TGGNB community. Funding Sources N/A.