ABSTRACT
This chapter findings from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) report, as well as additional research findings published since the release of the IOM report. It includes comparisons between lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) and heterosexual or cisgender populations; larger samples sizes; and examination of multiple health disparities. While most physical health disparities have been identified among LGBT adults, there are also physical health disparities identified earlier in the life-course that extend into adulthood. In 2011, the IOM released the most extensive health report to date regarding LGBT populations, entitled The Health of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People: Building a Foundation for Better Understanding. Based on this report LGBT compared to heterosexual and/or cisgender populations experience mental, physical, risk and protective, and health services disparities from adolescence to adulthood. Bisexual females and gay and bisexual males had lower rates of participation in aerobic physical activity compared to heterosexuals while rates among lesbians and heterosexual females did not differ.
