Sexual minorities more prone to severe substance use disorders: Study

Substance use disorders are more prevalent--and more severe--among sexual minorities, a recent study suggests.

Lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals are more likely than heterosexuals to use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.

The research published in the Journal of LGBT Health provides the context behind the issue by examining the severity of alcohol, tobacco and other drug abuse reported by lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals, and people who aren't sure how they identify.

"Our findings provide strong evidence that a higher proportion of sexual minority individuals, particularly bisexual individuals and those who are not sure of their sexual identities, have severe alcohol and tobacco use disorders, and those who are 'not sure' also have a higher proportion of severe drug use disorders," said Boyd, lead author of the study.

In the past, researchers often focused on any use or misuse of alcohol and drugs, and failed to document the severity of substance use disorders experienced by sexual minorities, the study pointed out. Read More

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