Depression and Health Behavior Disparities in LGBT Caregivers, 2015-2018 BRFSS

The secondary data analysis study sought to investigate the prevalence of adverse health outcomes in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) caregivers, and to examine health behavior and depression disparities in caregivers by sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). Using the 2015-2018 Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System (BRFSS) data, we conducted demographics descriptions, followed by hierarchical regressions to examine the relationships between SOGI, health behaviors, and depression among caregivers aged 18-79 years. Overall (weighted N=9,578,648), 4.81% were LGBT and 74.76% were non-Hispanic Whites. Compared to non-LGBT peers, LGBT caregivers tended to be younger, racially & ethnically diverse, single, financially disadvantaged, and binge drinkers. The prevalence of depression was significantly greater in LGBT caregivers than their non-LGBT peers (44.73% vs. 25.35%; p <0.01). LGBT caregivers were 1.80 times more likely to be depressed compared to their non-LGBT caregivers after adjusting for demographics and health behaviors (95%CI: 1.01-3.21). Similarly, the prevalence of binge drinking was greater in LGBT caregivers (22.45% vs. 15.52%; p <0.01), but this disparity was not significant after adjusting for demographics and depression. Future research needs to better understand physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by LGBT caregivers, as well as develop strategies to improve LGBT caregiver health, support, and services.