Harmful Impacts of the U.S. Federal Administration's Actions on LGBTQ+ Nicotine and Tobacco Research: Current Status and Ideas for Action.

This article focuses on the impact of recent U.S. Executive Orders (EOs) 14168 and 14151 on health research concerning LGBTQ+ populations, particularly studies on nicotine and tobacco product (NTP) use. Since January 2025, federal agencies have removed sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data, terminated LGBTQ+-focused research grants—including over half of the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) LGBTQ+-related grants—and censored related language in government and academic contexts, severely disrupting research efforts and trust with LGBTQ+ communities. These actions have destabilized researchers’ careers, reduced data availability for addressing health disparities, and raised concerns about data privacy and discrimination. The article concludes by recommending community partnerships, advocacy for alternative funding, inclusive research practices, and support for affected researchers to sustain LGBTQ+ health research and scientific integrity.