lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity (LGBTQ)

Introduction

also see homosexuality for gay men.

Complications

• heavy alcohol use & cigarette use more common in the LGBT community than in heterosexual peers
• lesbians have higher average BMI than heterosexual women & are more likely to be obese
• higher cardiovascular risk among lesbian and bisexual women largely due to obesity, hyperlipidemia & smoking 3]
• lesbians are less likely than heterosexual women to receive preventive screening,including screening mammography
• LGBT may experience worse health outcomes than do heterosexual adults
• LGBTQ may be reluctant to be open about sexual preference for fear of discrimination
• LGBTQ high school students are at higher risk of bullying, online bullying, & rape than heterosexual students
• lesbians are at increased risk for arthritis
• decreased risk for lesbians of cervical cancer unless bisexual
• no increased risk of LGBTQ for kidney cancer or colon cancer
• older LGBTQ have higher rates of disability & poor mental health than older heterosexuals.
• LGBTQ older adults are more likely to live in poverty
• LGBTQ adults may avoid routine preventive care
  • may use emergency departments for a medical crisis

More specific terms

• homosexuality

Additional terms

• transgender person