LGBTQ Community

People who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (and/or questioning) (LGBTQ) are members of every community. They are diverse, come from all walks of life, and include people of all races and ethnicities, all ages, all socioeconomic statuses, and from all parts of the country.

The perspectives and needs of LGBTQ people should be routinely considered in public health efforts to improve the overall health of every person and eliminate health disparities.

In addition to considering the needs of LGBTQ people in programs designed to improve the health of entire communities, there is also a need for culturally competent intervention and prevention services that are specific to this population.

Social inequality is often associated with poorer health status, and sexual orientation has been associated with multiple health threats. Members of the LGBTQ community experience dating violence, domestic violence, sexual violence, and stalking at the same rate as heterosexual individuals, but often face greater challenges in seeking help due to social and structural inequities, such as stigma and discrimination.

Sources - http://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/about.htm and www.loveisrespect.org