Journal of Addiction & Prevention

Research Article

Opioid Misuse Among Sexual and Gender Minorities in Texas: The Most Vulnerable Populations

Di Paola A , McCurdy SA, Schick V and Wilkerson JM*

Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, USA
*Address for Correspondence: Wilkerson JM, Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston 7000 Fannin, Suite 2620, Houston, TX 77030, USA, Tel: 713.500.9974, Fax: 713.500.9750; E-mail: Johnny.M.Wilkerson@uth.tmc.edu
Submission: 22 December, 2020; Accepted: 28 January, 2021; Published: 30 January, 2021
Copyright: © 2021 Di Paola A. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstract

Background: Increasing opioid-related mortality is especially concerning in Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) persons who are more likely than cis-gender heterosexual persons to have substance use disorders. These analyses identified variables associated with opioid (heroin and prescription pain medication) use by SGM Texans.
Method: Analyses were conducted on 1273 SGM Texans who completed an online cross-sectional survey. Variables including demographic characteristics, substance use, and notable life experiences. Variables found to be significant in bivariate analyses were entered into logistic regression models.
Results: 128 (10.0%) of participants reported opioid use within the 12 months prior. Those who reported opioid use were more likely to use another substance or engage in hazardous drinking. Those who reported injection drug use and having a non-monosexual private identity were more likely to report opioid use. Although age was not found to be a significant predictor of opioid use, those under 19 year of age accounted for 57.0% of those who reported opioid use.
Discussion: Opioid use is a concern among SGM persons, especially those who have a non-monosexual identity. Organizations serving SGM persons provide services to youth should consider implementing a screening, intervention, treatment, and harm reductionfor opioids, alcohol, and other substances.