While most health concerns of GLBT people are the same as anyone else, there are concerns that are specific to the GLBT community. In addition to gay men's high-risk factors for HIV infection, it has been shown that GLBT people tend to receive less health care in general and visit health care providers less often. This occurs for a variety of reasons, including fear of "coming out" or discussing sexual behavior to medical professionals, and/or a mistrust of the medical profession in general due to negative perceptions or past experiences.

Also, many types of stress and other mental health concerns are unique to the GLBT community. Stress caused by things such as maintaining a "secret life," coming out difficulties, violence and fear of violence, and other societal pressures are serious health issues for our community.

Health insurance factors also play a role in GLBT health, as most workplace policies still do not cover unmarried partners.

GayIndy.Org strives to be a comprehensive resource for health issues of specific interest to the GLBT community in Indianapolis. Please direct comments or suggestions to