Research: Gay and lesbian poor health linked with victimisation

Research conducted by La Trobe University has found that Gay men and lesbians who experience victimisation are more likely to have poor health, use illicit drugs and smoke.

Almost 3,000 gay men and lesbians were surveyed about their experiences of victimization and hiding their sexual preference and their health outcomes such as general health, weight, and drug and alcohol consumption.

The researchers say that gay men had experienced victimisation and identity concealment more often than lesbians In contrast, identity concealment was linked with poorer health outcomes among lesbians only.

The authors hope this study helps explain some of the health problems in those population.