LGBT+ History Month: Trailblazers in the Medical Field

As part of LGBT+ History month, the below videos have been created to shed light on experiences and contributions of LGBT+ individuals within the medical field.  You can find many inspiration videos of LGBT+ individuals actively making a difference in the medical field by visiting LGBT+ History Month 2024 . Below is one of the examples shown.

Sophia Jex Blake

Sophia Jex-Blake was a pioneering Scottish physician and a leading advocate for women's rights in the field of medicine. Born in England, Jex-Blake became a trailblazer in her quest to break down gender barriers within the medical profession. Despite facing considerable opposition and discrimination, she became one of the first women to attend medical school in Britain, studying at the University of Edinburgh in the 1860s. Subsequently, she campaigned ardently for the rights of women to practice medicine, co-founding the Edinburgh School of Medicine for Women. Following her death in 1912, her life partner Margaret Todd put together her biography.

Medical Advancements

The HIV pandemic had a profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community since its emergence. HIV/AIDS had a devastating impact on the LGBTQ+ community, particularly gay and bisexual men. In the early years, there was a lack of awareness, medical understanding, and support systems, leading to higher rates of infection and mortality. Since then, research and treatment has seen significant advancements globally. Some of the advancements can be seen below:

• Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): The introduction and ongoing refinement of Antiretroviral Therapy have been pivotal in managing HIV. ART helps control the virus, allowing individuals with HIV to live healthy lives and reducing the risk of transmission. In the UK, access to ART has become more widespread, contributing to improved health outcomes for those living with HIV.

• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): PrEP is a preventive approach where HIV-negative individuals take medication to reduce the risk of acquiring the virus. In the UK, PrEP has been approved for use, and initiatives have been implemented to increase awareness and accessibility.

• Treatment as Prevention (TasP): The concept of Treatment as Prevention involves starting HIV treatment early to reduce the viral load in the body, making individuals less likely to transmit the virus to others. This strategy has been supported and implemented in the UK.

• Improved Testing and Diagnosis: Advances in testing technologies have allowed for quicker and more accurate diagnosis of HIV. Increased testing accessibility, including self-testing kits and community-based initiatives, has contributed to earlier detection and treatment.

• Reducing Stigma and Discrimination: Efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination associated with HIV have been significant. Education campaigns, such as U=U (Undetectable=Untransferable) and community outreach programs aim to promote understanding and support for individuals living with HIV.

Further information on the work being conducted in Wales to provide more information around HIV can be found below:

Fast Track Cardiff & Vale

Welsh Government HIV Action Plan for Wales 2023-2026