Health Utilization, Expenditures, and Health Outcomes for Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Older Adults using the Health and Retirement Study

Under the leadership of Jennifer May, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, and funded by an ACORN Center small grant, our research team is examining the significant healthcare disparities faced by lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older adults (aged 51+) in the U.S. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we analyze differences in healthcare utilization, out-of-pocket medical costs, and overall health outcomes between LGB older adults and their non-LGB counterparts.

A key aspect of this study is the engagement of an LGBTQ+ patient and public advisory panel, ensuring that insights from lived experiences shape our findings. By identifying disparities and incorporating community perspectives, this research aims to inform targeted interventions that promote healthcare equity and improve outcomes for LGBTQ+ older adults. Ultimately, our work contributes to a more inclusive and responsive health care system.

Biopsychosocial Factors in Chronic Pelvic Pain: A Pilot Study

Funded by an ACORN Center small grant, Drs. Kristen Weaver-Toedtman, Pamela J. Wright, and Xuewen Wang are conducting a pilot study to explore biological, psychological, and social factors influencing chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women. Given CPP’s complex nature and its significant impact on health outcomes and quality of life, this study aims to identify key contributors to the condition and potential intervention pathways.

The research focuses on the feasibility of remote biospecimen collection for ovarian hormone levels (estradiol and progesterone) and the vaginal microbiome, as well as virtual study visits incorporating psychosocial assessments. Findings from this work have already led to a presentation at the AWHONN Convention (June 2025) and are shaping the development of multiple manuscripts and future grant proposals.

SC Department of Public Health-USC collaborative project to develop strategic directions for South Carolina’s action plan to reduce sexually transmitted Infections

This project is the preparatory phase of South Carolina (SC) 5-year strategic plan development to reduce sexually transmitted infections (STI) in the state (gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomonas vaginalis, syphilis and specifically congenital syphilis) which have been increasing in the past decade nationally. The project goal is to develop data-driven and evidence-based strategic directions for an action plan tailored to South Carolina’s needs and context. The strategic plan directions will be based on region-wise surveillance data, identifying priority risk communities and groups, environmental and stakeholder scan to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges, and Department of Public Health strengths and opportunities.

Dr Sudha Xirasagar, a faculty member of the Arnold School of Public Health is leading the project in partnership with the SC Department of Public Health’s Sexually Transmitted Infections Partner Services and Disease Intervention Unit led by Bernard Gilliard.