Disparities by Sexual Orientation in Frequent Engagement in Cancer-Related Risk Behaviors: A 12-Year Follow-Up

Abstract

Objectives We examined sexual-orientation disparities in frequent engagement in cancer-related risk indicators of tobacco, alcohol, diet and physical activity, ultraviolet radiation, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods We used longitudinal data from the national Growing Up Today Study (1999–2010). Of the analytic sample (N|=|9958), 1.8% were lesbian or gay (LG), 1.6% bisexual (BI), 12.1% mostly heterosexual (MH), and 84.5% completely heterosexual (CH). Results More sexual minorities (LGs, BIs, and MHs) than CHs frequently engaged in multiple cancer-related risk behaviors (33%, 29%, 28%, and 19%, respectively). Sexual-minority young women, especially BI and MH, reported more frequent engagement over time in substance use and diet and physical activity risk than CH women. More young gay than CH men frequently engaged over time in vomiting for weight control (odds ratio [OR]|=|3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]|=|1.1, 9.4), being physically inactive (OR|=|1.7; 95% CI|=|1.2, 2.4), and using tanning booths (OR|=|4.7; 95% CI|=|3.0, 7.4), and had a higher prevalence of ever having an STI (OR|=|3.5; 95% CI|=|2.0, 6.4). Individual analyses were generally comparable to the group-level analyses. Conclusions Young sexual minorities are at risk for cancer through frequent exposure to cancer-related risk behaviors over time. Long-term, longitudinal studies and surveillance data are essential and warranted to track frequent engagement in the risk behaviors and cancer-related morbidity and mortality.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth and Family Acceptance

“…2 Indeed, representative samples of youth have found disparities by sexual orientation in health-related risk behaviors, symptomatology, and diagnoses, 3–8 with disparities persisting over time. 9–11 Furthermore, sexual orientation disparities exist regardless how sexual orientation is defined, whether by sexual or romantic attractions; sexual behaviors; self-identification as heterosexual, bisexual, lesbian/gay or other identities; or, any combination thereof. Disparities by gender identity have also been found, with transgender youth experiencing poorer mental health than cisgender youth.…”

Sexual Orientation Differences in Adolescent Health Care Access and Health-Promoting Physician Advice

“…1–3 Sexual orientation disparities in multiple core domains of adolescent health are concerning because these disparities may persist across development, leading to higher rates of substance use disorders, obesity, hypertension, and heart disease in adulthood. 4,5 Adequate access to health care, with appropriate routine screening and feedback on health-related behaviors, may provide one route to addressing the formation of sexual orientation health disparities. However, equal access to health care continues to be a concern among sexual orientation minorities, and it remains unknown whether sexual minority adolescents receive adequate physician screening and advice on health-related behaviors.…”

Fifteen-minute consultation in the normal child: Challenges relating to sexuality and gender identity in children and young people

“…A proper adolescent history with developmental assessment including sexual identity and behaviour might help the patient discuss his identity and build a better relationship with his paediatrician. LGBT+ youth also have higher rates of cancer-related behaviours,28 which could also be uncovered with an appropriate history.…”