Unequal Opportunity: Health Disparities Affecting Gay and Bisexual Men in the United States

Gay and bisexual men have often been invisible in health disparities research. As a result, the specific needs and experiences of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are often neglected in public health efforts to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged groups. This symposium synthesizes research on disparities experienced by MSM and makes the case for considering these health threats as part of broader efforts to document, understand, and eliminate health disparities in the United States. The session will be moderated by Dr. Ronald Valdiserri. Dr. Richard Wolitski will present an overview that summaries newly completed reviews of health disparities experienced by MSM, including violent victimization; mental health; substance use; HIV, hepatitis, and other sexually transmitted infections. Presentations by Drs. Susan Cochran and Ronald Valdiserri will provide an in-depth examination of the evidence indicating poorer mental health and increased rates of sexually transmitted infections among MSM compared to their heterosexual peers. These presentations will also identify risk factors for these health problems and identify implications for research and public health practice. In the closing presentation, Dr. Ronald Stall will present a developmental model that links the effects of key stressors experienced by many MSM with negative health outcomes. In addition, he will outline future directions for research and prevention of health disparities among MSM.