Mixing sex and gender complicates health data analysis

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has stated that mixing sex and gender identity in data collection is not useful. He emphasized this during a discussion in the House of Commons, highlighting the need for better data analysis to address health inequalities. Streeting's comments came as the government reviews sex and gender data to ensure that all communities, including transgender individuals, are considered. He referenced an independent report by Professor Alice Sullivan, which advises that data on sex at birth should be collected consistently. Sullivan cautioned against changing gender markers for trans individuals, as this could lead to valuable health data being lost. In response to concerns about data accuracy, Conservative shadow health minister Dr. Caroline Johnson pointed out that current health statistics often combine information about cisgender and transgender individuals. She emphasized the need for clear data that can effectively inform healthcare decisions. Streeting acknowledged Johnson's concerns, agreeing that the current conflation of sex and gender identity complicates data analysis and understanding health disparities. He assured that the government is reviewing the recommendations from Sullivan's report thoroughly to meet the needs of all individuals. The review argues that collecting data on sex does not diminish the experiences of people with diverse gender identities. Instead, it claims that proper data collection is essential to track outcomes for different groups in a way that respects their identities.