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Cigarette smoking is the most important high-risk behavior associated with chronic diseases and tobacco use is higher among gay men than it is among men in the general population. Likewise, lesbians have been found to smoke more than heterosexual women. Smoking is also likely to be higher among transgender persons, especially when risk factors like poverty, low education, a higher prevalence of injection use, stressful living and work environment and sexual risk patterns are taken into account. Since people below the poverty level are more likely to smoke the implications for the prevalence of smoking among LGBT individuals and families living in poverty is profound.
These high smoking rates increase the tobacco-related health problems among LGBT people: lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and an increased risk for esophageal cancer are just some of the reasons why tobacco use is a problem. If you are L, G, B, or T and a smoker, you should seek prevention and treatment services. And it is the job of those who conduct cessation and treatment programs to provide culturally competent care to LGBT smokers. If the programs in your area do not do so, why not identify the source of their funding and determine the extent to which they are obligated to do so?
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The information provided by Rainbow Access Initiative, Inc. is for educational purposes only and is not intended to render medical advice or professional services. The information should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease and is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, consult your healthcare provider. Rainbow Access Initiative is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. These materials were produced through a grant from the New York State Department of Health. You may not use them without the written permission of Rainbow Access Initiative, Inc. Permission may be obtained by contacting the Director.
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