As we have previously acknowledged, terminology, usage, and word choice are critically important in medical and scientific publication, particularly when describing people. Inclusive language recognizes diversity and conveys respect, but noninclusive language may convey bias toward or against persons or groups based on their assumed or self-identified characteristics or demographics and must be avoided. Guidance on use of terms to describe gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, and age in medical and scientific publication must address and balance challenging concepts and goals to promote clarity, inclusiveness, respect, and fairness. People should not be reduced to or limited by a single characteristic, as any characteristic likely intersects with other demographic characteristics and aspects of identity.
Author(s)
Annette Flanagin, RN, MA1; Tracy Frey, BA2; Stacy Christiansen, MA3; et al
Publisher
JAMA
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2024.16646
Categories
Article, DEI Committee, SAGER Project Group