Tobacco Use Among Adults by Sexual Orientation: Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of a study examining the relationship between sexual orientation and tobacco use among adults in the United States. The study uses data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (Wave 1, 2013-2014) to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use across different sexual orientations and gender.

Key Points:

* The study analyzed data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (Wave 1, 2013-2014) to estimate the prevalence of tobacco use across different sexual orientations and gender.
* Sexual orientation was operationalized as sexual identity and sexual attraction.
* Younger lesbian/gay and bisexual women had higher relative odds of experimental use of all six tobacco products compared to heterosexual women.
* Younger gay men (but not older gay men) had higher relative odds of experimental and regular use of cigarettes compared to heterosexual men.
* Older gay men had higher odds of experimental e-cigarette and hookah use, but lower odds of regular cigar and experimental/regular smokeless tobacco use.
* Measures of sexual orientation identity and sexual attraction resulted in similar estimates of tobacco use with noted differences in those who identified as "something else," as well as among those who indicated asexual attraction.

Main Message:
The study highlights the complex relationship between sexual orientation and tobacco use. Gender-based and product-specific approaches to tobacco prevention and control efforts are needed to address the high use of tobacco, particularly among sexual minority women. The findings can inform empirical and theoretical work in this area and contribute to the development of targeted interventions to reduce tobacco use among sexual minorities.

Wheldon, Christopher W., Annette R. Kaufman, Karin A. Kasza, and Richard P. Moser. “Tobacco Use Among Adults by Sexual Orientation: Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study.” LGBT Health 5, no. 1 (January 1, 2018): 33–44. https://doi.org/10.1089/lgbt.2017.0175.