Nathaniel M. Tran – The Conversation

Inclusive health care settings are essential to the well-being of LGBTQ+ patients. AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack

April 10, 2026

Doctors can refuse to treat LGBTQ+ patients in several states – these religious exemption laws lead to drops in HIV testing

Nathaniel M. Tran, University of Illinois Chicago and Periwinkle Seljord-Solberg, University of Illinois Chicago

An increasing number of laws aim to roll back LGBTQ+ people’s ability to access health care, leading to cascading effects on their well-being.

U.S. researchers are seeking the light at the end of a rough year for science. Westend61/Getty Images

December 18, 2025

‘This year nearly broke me as a scientist’ – US researchers reflect on how 2025’s science cuts have changed their lives

Carrie McDonough, Carnegie Mellon University; Brian G. Henning, Gonzaga University; Cara Poland, Michigan State University; Nathaniel M. Tran, University of Illinois Chicago; Rachael Sirianni, UMass Chan Medical School, and Stephanie J. Nawyn, Michigan State University

US science lost a great deal in 2025, including tens of billions of dollars of federal funding, entire research agencies and programs, and a generation of researchers.

Getting cancer screenings, vaccinations and HIV tests is easier when you can trust your doctor. Hit Stop Media/iStock via Getty Images Plus

June 10, 2025

LGBTQ+ patients stay up‑to‑date on preventive care when their doctors are supportive, saving money and lives throughout society

Nathaniel M. Tran, University of Illinois Chicago

When LGBTQ+ patients can be open with their providers about their identity, they are much more likely to get essential care.

Courts across the nation are debating whether LGBTQ+ people should be protected from discrimination. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

February 6, 2025

Anti‑LGBTQ+ policies harm the health of not only LGBTQ+ people, but all Americans

Nathaniel M. Tran, University of Illinois Chicago

From access to preventive care to workplace protections, public policies affect the health of LGBTQ+ people and the general public in both direct and indirect ways.

Trans teens living in a supportive family environment have a lower risk of attempting suicide or running away from home. Eoneren/E+ via Getty Images

July 31, 2023

Trans youth are significantly more likely to attempt suicide when gender dysphoria is met with conversion therapy than with hormone treatment

Travis Campbell, Southern Oregon University; Nathaniel M. Tran, Vanderbilt University, and Samuel Mann, Vanderbilt University

Because of ethical considerations, there are no clinical trials comparing the effects of hormone therapy to conversion therapy on trans youths. But a set of recent studies tease out cause and effect.

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