Tobacco use and the GLBT community

People who smoke are at greatest risk for lung cancer. Current evidence suggests that gay and bisexual men are more likely to smoke (33.2%) than men in the general population (21.3%), and lesbians are more likely to smoke (25%) than heterosexual women (15%). Smoking is responsible for 87% of all lung cancers, as well as a host of other tobacco-related diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and emphysema. Research further suggests that HIV makes the lungs less able to recover from the damage caused by smoking. Smoking is common in bars and clubs where gay and bisexual men and women may socialize. This exposure increases the risk of lung cancer and other diseases caused by secondhand smoke.

Lung cancer is one of the few cancers that can often be prevented simply by not smoking. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. You can also reduce your exposure to secondhand smoke by seeking smoke-free places. If you or a loved one smokes, talk to a health care provider about quitting, or call 1-800-227-2345 to help increase your chances of quitting for good.

   Helpful Links:

• Men's Health
• Cancer Facts for Gay and Bisexual Men
• Women's Health
• Cancer Facts for Gay and Bisexual Women

   Helpful Organizations:

• American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
• US Department of Health and Human Services
• Gay and Lesbian Medical Association
• Mautner Project, the National Lesbian Health Organization
  

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