Marta Abreu, PhD

Dr. Marta Abreu is a globally recognized researcher and educator specializing in transgender and LGBTQ+ health and rights. With over 12 years of experience in clinical research, policy advising, and community-based education, she has dedicated her career to improving healthcare access, social inclusion, and mental wellbeing for transgender individuals worldwide. Marta combines rigorous academic research with actionable interventions, bridging the gap between science, policy, and community advocacy.

Specialization

Transgender Health and Wellbeing
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Sexual Education
Mental Health Support for Gender Diverse Communities
Healthcare Policy for LGBTQ+ Populations
Intersectionality in Sexual Health Education

Education

2006–2010: BSc in Psychology, University of Barcelona
2010–2012: MSc in Gender Studies, Central European University
2012–2016: PhD in Transgender Health and Policy, University College London

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Research Fellow, Transgender Health Initiative, UCL
2018–2021: Senior Consultant, ILGA-Europe – LGBTQ+ Policy Development
2021–Present: Director of Research, Trans Rights Global Foundation
Advisor for EU and UN programs on transgender health and inclusive education

Key Research Cases and Project Results

Project: "Inclusive Sexual Education for Trans Youth" (2020–2022) Outcome: Developed curriculum implemented in 15 European schools; reported 42% increase in self-reported safety and inclusion among trans students. Quote: "Inclusive education not only teaches knowledge, it affirms identity and reduces stigma." – M. Abreu
Project: "Mental Health Support for Transgender Adults" (2019–2021) Outcome: Conducted nationwide surveys and developed clinical guidelines, leading to a 35% improvement in reported access to gender-affirming mental health services. Quote: "Understanding lived experiences is critical for creating effective mental health interventions." – M. Abreu
Project: "Transgender Healthcare Access in Eastern Europe" (2017–2019) Outcome: Policy recommendations adopted by 6 governments; improved hormone therapy access and legal protections for over 10,000 transgender individuals. Quote: "Policy change is a matter of both rights and health outcomes." – M. Abreu

Selected Publications

Abreu, M. et al. (2022). "Trans-Inclusive Sexual Education: Evidence and Implementation." Journal of LGBT Health, 18(3), 145–168.
Abreu, M. (2021). "Mental Health Disparities Among Transgender Youth: Longitudinal Analysis." International Journal of Transgender Health, 22(2), 67–92.
Abreu, M., & Rossi, P. (2019). "Policy Interventions for Transgender Healthcare Access." Global Public Health Review, 11(4), 311–329.

Professional Memberships

World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH)
International LGBTQ+ Health Association (ILGA)
European Society for Sexual Medicine (ESSM)

Media, Lectures, and Podcasts

TEDx Talk: "Transforming Healthcare for Trans Communities" (2021)
Guest speaker on BBC World Service: "Trans Rights and Health Access"
Regular contributor to the podcast "Queer Health Matters"

Unique Values and Experience

Marta Abreu emphasizes data-driven advocacy combined with lived experience insights. She is recognized for turning research findings into actionable policies, curricula, and community programs. Her work empowers trans individuals, enhances inclusive education, and drives systemic change in healthcare systems worldwide.