E-cigarette Use and Risk Behaviors among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Adults: The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Survey

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of e-cigarette use among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals and its association with risk behaviors was studied. METHODS: Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey, self-reported sexual orientation, e-cigarette use, cigarettes, marijuana, smokeless tobacco, and high-risk behavior (using non-prescribed drugs, treatment for sexually transmitted disease, or receiving monetary or drug compensation in exchange for sex in the previous year) were assessed. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to study the association between LGBT and risk behaviors. RESULTS: The prevalence of e-cigarette use among LGBT adults was 13%, nearly twice that of heterosexual adults. LGBT adults were more likely [Odds Ratio (95% Confidence Interval)] to report current use of e-cigarettes 1.84 (1.64, 2.06), cigarettes 1.61 (1.49, 1.73), marijuana 2.37 (1.99, 2.82), and high-risk behavior 3.69 (3.40, 4.01) compared to heterosexual adults. Results for smokeless tobacco were not significant. CONCLUSION: There are disparities in e-cigarette and other risk behaviors among LGBT adults, which may increase risk of adverse health effects in this vulnerable population.