Cardiovascular Health by the Intersection of Race, Ethnicity, and Sexual Orientation
Abstract
Using National Health Interview Survey data, this study examines patterns of poor heart health along the intersection of sexual orientation and race/ethnicity. Poor heart health consists of any reported angina pectorals, coronary heart disease, high cholesterol, heart attack, or hypertension. Due to increased exposure to discrimination, we hypothesize that heart health outcomes will vary by the intersections of sexual orientation and race/ethnicity. Results find that heart health varies by the intersection of sexual orientation and race/ethnicity. First, we find that LGB respondents report higher odds of poor heart health than their straight counterparts. Second, we find a racial and ethnic variation in heart health, as supported by previous research. Specifically, Black respondents report higher odds of poor heart health compared to white respondents, with no statistical difference between white and Hispanic respondents. Third, we find that heart health varies by the intersection of sexual orientation and race/ethnicity, with white and Hispanic LGB groups report higher odds of poor heart health than their straight counterparts. However, poor heart health does not vary between Black straight and LGB respondents.
