Abstract 9502: Sexual Minority Adults’ Perceptions of a Multi-Component Intervention for CVD Risk Reduction

Abstract

Introduction: Sexual minority (SM; e.g., gay, lesbian, bisexual) adults have a higher prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to heterosexual adults, which is attributed to their increased exposure to minority stressors (e.g., experiences of discrimination). Yet, there are no evidence-based interventions for CVD risk reduction tailored to the unique needs of SM adults. Our goal was to inform the development of a tailored intervention for CVD risk reduction in middle-aged (ages 40-64) SM adults. Methods: We conducted a qualitative descriptive study to understand the perceptions of SM adults on their risk of CVD and identify their preferences for an intervention. We recruited an online sample of middle-aged SM adults who lived in the United States and reported no history of CVD. During one-on-one semi-structured interviews, participants were presented a sample multi-component intervention that combined elements of existing interventions for minority stress and CVD risk reduction. Transcripts were independently coded using directed content analysis to create a codebook. Codes were grouped into cognitive, behavioral, and environmental themes guided by Social Cognitive Theory. Results: The sample included 23 participants with a mean age of 52.0 (±7.2) years. Approximately 52% were female and 61% were White. Cognitive theme: Participants acknowledged the importance of their sexual identity and cardiovascular health but lacked insight into the elevated CVD risk that has been observed in SM adults. Behavioral theme: They were willing to join an intervention to reduce their CVD risk if it did not require dramatic lifestyle changes. Environmental theme: Participants preferred a virtual, synchronous, group intervention no longer than 12 weeks. They indicated convenience, socialization, and comprehensiveness were main factors informing intervention delivery preferences. All participants approved of the sample intervention, particularly stress-reduction components. Conclusions: Gaps in knowledge related to CVD risk among SM adults were identified. Findings provide important knowledge that should be considered in designing tailored interventions for CVD risk reduction in SM adults.