Patterns of Alcohol Use

Consistent international evidence shows lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) people report greater alcohol use and problematic drinking at higher rates than heterosexual people. LB women’s alcohol use is consistently higher, with more problematic use or dependence, than their heterosexual peers; differences between GB and heterosexual men are rarely reported. A non-exclusive sexuality (e.g. bisexual or ‘mostly’ heterosexual or gay) appears to be associated with higher alcohol use or problematic drinking compared to an exclusive sexuality (e.g. heterosexual, lesbian, gay).  

Sexuality diverse young people consistently show a greater risk of alcohol use and an earlier onset of problematic alcohol use, with a similar pattern of greater disparities for young LB women. Alcohol use does not decline with older age in the same way as is seen in the general population. The limited evidence on alcohol use and problematic drinking among gender diverse populations has mixed findings and is beset by methodological issues; representative studies show no significant differences between gender diverse and cisgender people.