Higher Smoking and Drinking Risks for Gays and Lesbians
Author Information
Author(s): Elisabeth P Gruskin, Nancy Gordon
Primary Institution: Kaiser Permanente Division of Research
Hypothesis
Are lesbians and gay men more likely to smoke and drink heavily compared to heterosexuals?
Conclusion
Lesbians and gay men may be at increased risk for morbidity and mortality due to higher levels of cigarette and alcohol use.
Supporting Evidence
- Lesbians were significantly more likely than heterosexual women to be heavy drinkers and current smokers.
- Gay men were significantly more likely than heterosexual men to be current smokers.
- The study used a large probability sample rather than convenience samples.
Takeaway
Lesbians and gay men are more likely to smoke and drink a lot compared to straight people.
Methodology
Data from random sample health surveys of adult members of a Northern California Health Plan were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of sexual orientation and exclusion of non-disclosing individuals.
Limitations
The sample of lesbians and gay men was relatively small and skewed towards higher socioeconomic status, and the sexual orientation question was limited.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 210 lesbians, 331 gay men, 12,188 heterosexual women, and 9,342 heterosexual men aged 20-64.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.08–4.23 for lesbians; 95% CI 1.75–3.30 for gay men
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website