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- Phone: +1 (251) 534-6799
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LGBTQ+ Health
LGBTQ+ Health
Members of the LGBTQ+ community have unique and complex health needs that heterosexuals don’t face. Health disparities and barriers to care can make staying healthy challenging, but knowing LGBTQ+ health risks can ensure you stay on top of your health. Local and national resources can help you prevent or treat these health conditions with the right medical testing, care and support.
Members of the LGBTQ+ community have unique health needs and risks that they have to be aware of to stay healthy. In addition to risks that affect all men and women regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, such as heart disease and cancer, people in the LGBTQ+ community may face certain higher physical and mental health risks.
Health equals self-care. Sometimes we can put our health on the back burner. We should really focus on our health and self-care, because if we are taking care of ourselves then we can help others in the community. We have our chosen family that is depending on us to be there tomorrow.
Unique Health Risks for LGBTQ+ People
- Greater risk of acquiring HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases
- Higher rates of substance abuse and smoking
- Higher risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
- Greater risk of suicide attempts
- Higher risk of certain cancers
The community also faces higher rates of homelessness and sexual assault that can negatively affect health and wellbeing.
Focusing on Health and Self-Care
Fear of discrimination and lack of health insurance coverage prevent many people in the community from seeking care. Finding a provider that understands the needs of the LGBTQ+ community can also be a frustrating and negative experience.
Fortunately, help is available.
Several local and national organizations can help members of the LGBTQ+ community begin a discussion with their provider or find providers who are allies. They may also provide free mental health counseling and STD tests.
Cisgender Gay and Bisexual Men
Cancer and heart disease are the leading causes of death in all cisgender men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But gay men and other cisgender men who have sex with men also have other unique health risks. The CDC defines the term men who have sex with men, or MSM, as a diverse group who have varying identities, behaviors and healthcare needs.
Some of the most pressing health issues facing the community are higher rates of STDs, tobacco and drug use, depression and body dysmorphia — a problem with body image, according to GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ Equality.
Quick Health Tips for Cisgender Gay and Bisexual Men
- Coming out to your provider will ensure you have the best care and receive all the testing you need to stay healthy. If your provider is not an ally, find another provider.
- Heart disease is a leading cause of death for all men. Get regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes.
- Cancer is a top cause of death for all men, but gay men may have increased risks. Get screened for prostate, testicular, colon, oral and anal cancers as recommended by your provider.
- MSM are at increased risk for HIV and other STDs. Know your status and get tested regularly to protect your health and the health of your partner.
- Practice safe sex to reduce your risk of acquiring or transmitting an STD.
- Ask your provider if PrEP/PEP can help you prevent HIV acquisition.
- Bisexual men are less likely to get tested for HIV and have elevated rates of HPV, which can lead to anal cancer. Make sure to get tested.
Cisgender Lesbians and Bisexual Women
The leading cause of death for all cisgender women is heart disease. The CDC defines the term women who have sex with women, or WSW, as a diverse group with varied identities, behaviors, practices and risks. WSW must still have all the proper care to prevent cardiovascular disease, obesity, cancer and STDs.
Lesbians and bisexual women face a higher risk for breast cancer and gynecological cancers than heterosexual women. Lesbians and bisexual women are also at higher risk of substance abuse, smoking, heavy drinking and weight problems.
Quick Health Tips for Cisgender Lesbians and Bisexual Women
- Coming out to your provider will ensure you have the best care and receive all the testing you need to stay healthy. If your provider is not an ally, find another provider.
- Lesbians and bisexual women may be at increased risk for breast and gynecological cancers. Get the proper tests.
- Lesbians and bisexual women can get the same STDs as heterosexual women. Make sure to get STD tests regularly.
- Human papillomavirus is common among WSW, especially younger women. Screen for HPV and cervical cancer and ask about the HPV vaccine.
- If you smoke, take steps to quit.
- A healthy diet and fitness program are important because lesbians are more likely to be overweight or obese compared to heterosexual women. Get screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes.
- Bisexual women suffer increased rates of emotional stress, eating disorders and suicidality compared to lesbians and heterosexual women. Seek out mental health counseling or talk to your provider to get help.
- Hormone irregularity rates are higher in lesbians and so are rates of polycystic ovary syndrome. Ask about treatments for irregular periods or PCOS.
For more information, get in touch.
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Our sexual health clinic is committed to providing comprehensive and confidential services to promote and support individuals’ sexual well-being.
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- 105 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
- [email protected]
- +1 (251) 534-6799