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Survey highlights

Survey results show that the majority of respondents (89%) consider themselves to be in good, very good, or excellent health. Top health concerns as identified by respondents include HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, chemical dependency, and tobacco use.

Respondents (53%) believe LGBT people smoke more than the general population, yet they feel LGBT communities focus on tobacco as a health issue only sometimes, rarely, or very rarely (84%). They disagree with the acceptance of tobacco sponsorships by bars/nightclubs (63%) and events (68%). Over half (54%), would specifically like to see Pride festivals be smoke-free events.

More than half of respondents (56%) had a history of smoking. The vast majority (85%) reported having tried to quit, and nearly all smokers (91%) stated a desire to quit.

 Numerous barriers to successfully quitting were identified. Common responses were cravings, feelings of withdrawal, and a loss of a way to handle stress. Current smokers would prefer the use of various quitting aids—often nicotine replacements—if cost were not an issue.

Most respondents have insurance, yet many (20%) of them do not. Although 68% are out as an LGBT person to their doctor, the remaining 32% of LGBT individuals are not out to their health care provider. The majority of respondents (79%) prefer that their doctor/clinic be LGBT competent, yet over one-third (36%) feel that their doctor/clinic is not knowledgeable and/or competent about LGBT health.

A significantly high number reported having been diagnosed or treated for depression (39%) and/or for anxiety (29%).

Almost 13% had been treated or diagnosed with a drug or alcohol addiction and over 23% of respondents identified as a person in recovery for alcohol and/or drug addiction.

Conclusions

While many LGBT individuals consider themselves to be in good health, tobacco use, chemical dependency, and mental health are major health concerns in LGBT communities. Actions should be taken to reduce the prevalence of tobacco sponsorships and smoking at LGBT events. Measures, such as LGBT tailored cessation, substance abuse treatment programs, and mental health services should be taken to support individuals struggling with addiction and other mental health concerns. Also, an open dialogue around health-related behaviors is important in physician-patient relationships. It is imperative for health care providers to understand the unique health issues related to sexual orientation & gender identity to best serve the health needs of LGBT individuals. The work of Rainbow Health Initiative and MN Tobacco-free Lavender Communities helps to promote these efforts.