Research should address the issues of HIV and AIDS detection, access to care, engagement into prevention or treatment, and utilization of services as well as questions related to specific subgroups of women, such as women of color, lesbians, and bisexual women. Studies are needed that explore genetic, environmental, social, and cultural factors, strengths as well as areas of risk, and combinations and aggregations of these factors. Research projects with American Indian populations must be developed in equal partnership. American Indian women are reluctant to participate in programs that operate for 3 to 4 years and then disappear. To avoid heterosexual bias in research, it is necessary to stress the confidentiality of participants and request information on sexual orientation.
Language implying a heterosexual bias needs to be removed.
Lesbian and gay researchers can help to design studies, develop research questions, and make recommendations. Researchers must write and disseminate their research findings so that myths about drug abuse are not perpetuated. Better methods are needed for disseminating research findings and ensuring their application in the health care system.