Access and experiences of healthcare in Japan for trans, non-binary, and x-gender people: A systematic scoping review

In Japan, there is very little research concerning the health and wellbeing of transgender, non-binary, and x-gender people (TNB and TNBX), and even less still is accessible in English. Previous studies indicate that TNBX people commonly experience significant health and social inequalities, including challenges in receiving gender affirming care (GAC), healthcare, or care in general that is accessible, affordable, respectful, and of high quality.

This study aims to scope existing peer-reviewed research and grey literature to establish what is known about the experiences of TNBX people in Japan in relation to health and/or care. A further aim is to explore the potential assets or facilitating factors that may support access to healthcare and GAC and/or may mitigate harm and explore potential barriers in terms of access to health and care.

This study also aims to reinforce collaborative links between Japan and the UK, with results published in both English and Japanese. This will add to the information available in English, as well as making existing research more accessible to Japanese speakers.