CDC report: Higher prevalence of health conditions that exacerbate COVID-19 found in sexual minorities

Lesbian, gay and bisexual persons in the U.S. have higher self-reported prevalence of several underlying health conditions associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes, compared to heterosexual persons, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study released last week.

Between 2017 and 2019, sexual minorities, whether part of the overall population or among racial and ethnic minority groups, reported higher rates of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, stroke, kidney disease, cancer and heart disease.

Based on these findings, CDC said including information on sexual orientation and gender identity, along with race and ethnicity, in COVID-19 data collections could improve knowledge about disparities in these communities.