Compared to heterosexuals, individuals who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) are more likely to develop chronic health problems. LGBTQ seniors have an earlier onset of disabilities. Gay men have higher cancer rates, and lesbian women have higher obesity rates compared to other women. Those who identify as LGBTQ also are two-and-a-half times more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, according to the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.

What causes these painful, troubling disparities? No one really knows, mostly because of a lack of available data and research. “What we are seeing is a public health crisis,” says Dr. Paul Erwin, current Dean of the UAB School of Public Health. “We must dedicate ample time, talent, and resources to better address the dramatic health disparities impacting the LGBTQ population in Alabama and across the nation.”

In order to do just this, UAB faculty, staff, researchers, LGBTQ community members, and their allies rallied together to launch a fundraising campaign to create an endowed chair for LGBTQ health studies in the School of Public Health—to be held by a leader who will champion research, education, and service in the field. In December 2021, the School of Public Health appointed Sarah MacCarthy, Sc.D. as the first holder of the Magic City LGBTQ Health Studies Endowed Chair.

Strategic Plan

Community Connections

Donor's Corner

Research

Moving Forward

As we move forward, there will be opportunities to learn more about the endowed chair fund.

Thank You!

In advance of all these actions, we thank you for your participation and your support - but most of all - we thank you for your commitment to the Magic City LGBTQ Health Studies Endowed Chair.  

Learn more about giving to the LGBTQ Health Studies Endowed Chair Fund by contacting Ebony Harris, Director of Development: (205) 934-5517, enharris@uab.edu.