More on treating homosexuality as a sickness: Publication of bigoted letter is worrying

doi:10.1136/bmj.328.7450.1261-a

BMJ 2004;328:1261 (22 May), doi:10.1136/bmj.328.7450.1261-a

Letter

Publication of bigoted letter is worrying

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

EDITOR—The publication of Igbokwe's letter equating paedophiliawith homosexuality in the debate on treating homosexuality asa sickness is worrying.¹ Although a debate on sexuality is positive(even if we do have to read misinformed and outdated views),it can serve to show both practitioners and the public thatmany general practitioners are still woefully ignorant aboutsexuality—and other issues too. However, to permit thepublication of Igbokwe's letter is distasteful.

Such views not only show ignorance but also contribute to homophobicabuse. I am saddened, but not surprised, to see the extent ofhomophobia and ignorance in Igbokwe's letter and elsewhere inthis debate. But I am disgusted that a medical journal shouldpublish and by doing so endorse, a letter linking homosexualityand paedophilia.

The job of health professionals is to provide care for the public.That public will include people with different sexual orientations,views, . . . [Full text of this article]

Petra Boynton, lecturer in health services research

University College London, Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, Open Learning Unit, Archway Campus, London N19 5LW p.boynton@pcps.ucl.ac.uk

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