Men who have sex with men are at an increased risk of sexually transmitted infection with the viruses that cause the serious condition of the liver known as hepatitis. Culturally sensitive mental health services targeted specifically at gay men may be more effective in the prevention, early detection, and treatment of these conditions. Adolescents and young adults may be at particularly high risk of suicide because of these concerns. The likelihood of depression or anxiety may be greater, and the problem may be more severe for those men who remain in the closet or who do not have adequate social supports. Depression/AnxietyÄepression and anxiety appear to affect gay men at a higher rate than the general population.
The long-term effects of many of these substances are unknown however current wisdom suggests potentially serious consequences as we age. These include a number of substances ranging from amyl nitrate ("poppers"), to marijuana, Ecstasy, and amphetamines. Gay men use substances at a higher rate than the general population, and not just in larger communities such as New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
All health care professionals should be aware of how to counsel and support maintenance of safe sex practices. Safe sex is proven to reduce the risk of receiving or transmitting HIV. While effective HIV treatments may be on the horizon, there is no substitute for preventing infection. However, the last few years have seen the return of many unsafe sex practices. That men who have sex with men are at an increased risk of HIV infection is well known, but the effectiveness of safe sex in reducing the rate of HIV infection is one of the gay community's great success stories. While not all of these items apply to everyone, it's wise to be aware of these issues. Not a product of the New York State Department of Healthįollowing are the health issues GMLA's (Gay Lesbian Medical Association) healthcare providers have identified as most commonly of concern for gay men.Health Professionals Advancing LGBT Equality: Author: Robert J.Ten Things Gay Men Should Discuss With Their Health Care Providers All Health Care Professionals & Patient Safety.Clinical Guidelines, Standards & Quality of Care.Health & Safety in the Home, Workplace & Outdoors.Birth, Death, Marriage & Divorce Records.