⁤LGBTQ+ populations have been demonstrated to require additional understanding into their unique health care needs, particularly their cardiovascular health. ⁤⁤The absence of accurate sexual orientation and gender identity and expression (SOGIE) data contributes to worsened cardiovascular outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals by exacerbating health care disparities. ⁤⁤Despite federal mandates, SOGIE data collection is hindered by political and regulatory discrimination, patient and practitioner hesitancy, inadequate guidance, improper terminology, and poor integration into electronic health records (EHRs). ⁤⁤Addressing these challenges requires the implementation of inclusive policies, integrating SOGIE data into EHRs, educating health care professionals on the importance of SOGIE data, while also creating a diverse cardiovascular workforce. ⁤⁤These steps are crucial for improving representation in clinical trials and advancing cardiovascular health equity for the LGBTQ+ community. ⁤

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[Source: JAMA Cardiology, 2024.]