South Middlesex Times

Two studies conducted by a Rutgers Health researcher revealed that individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, and bisexual, particularly women, are more responsive to tobacco marketing, have a higher likelihood of smoking daily, and may struggle more with quitting compared to heterosexual individuals.

Lead author of the studies, Ollie Ganz, emphasized the importance of studying how sexual minority populations are affected by tobacco marketing, stating, "From previous studies, we know that sexual minority individuals are more likely to use tobacco products than heterosexual individuals."

The studies found that lesbian/gay and bisexual women were more receptive to tobacco marketing overall, with bisexual women showing a higher receptivity to marketing for various tobacco products compared to heterosexual women. Similarly, gay and bisexual men were found to be more responsive to specific types of tobacco advertising compared to heterosexual men.

Regarding cigarette use behaviors, the research highlighted that sexual minority women, particularly bisexual women, have higher smoking rates and face greater challenges in quitting compared to heterosexual women. Ganz stressed the need for tailored interventions and more resources to support sexual minority women, especially bisexual women, in their efforts to quit smoking.

Ganz further emphasized the significance of these findings in shaping future policies, stating, "In order for tobacco control policies and regulations and public education campaigns to be effective, they need to be able to identify the populations that are at greatest risk for tobacco use."

The studies underscore the importance of understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals in quitting smoking and the necessity of developing targeted interventions and policies to support these populations in their efforts to quit.