"Gay, bisexual and transgender men are 2.0 to 2.5 times more likely to smoke than heterosexual men. Lesbian, bisexual and transgender women are 1.5 to 2.0 times more likely to smoke than heterosexual women. Bisexual boys and girls have some of the highest smoking rates when compared with both their heterosexual and homosexual peers."
The rates are alarming, but I do see some change coming about, at least in my own home. My partner gave up cigarettes about a year ago. He quit with the aid of the drug Chantix and it worked well for him, without noticeable side effects. I'd quit about six months prior without any cessation medications or patches or even gum. A good friend recently marked two months without smoking, and without drugs as well. It's not easy but it can be done. There are still moments when I think a cigarette would taste good, but the moment passes. I do feel better now that I no longer smoke. It's just a matter of reminding myself of that fact when the desire occurs, a matter of will. That's a difficult proposition for many, though, as is making the initial commitment to quitting.
Last night while at a friend's house for dinner, I couldn't help noticing packages of Chantix, waiting to be opened. I know she and her partner have tried to quit before and I hope they make it this time.
Download the .pdf of the report from the American Lung Association's web site here:
