Health-Related Quality of Life in Sexual Minority College Undergraduate Students

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The objective was to examine differences in Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) in sexual minority (SM) college undergraduate students compared to their heterosexual peers. Methods A cross sectional convenience sample of college undergraduate students completed an online survey that assessed HRQOL, demographics, and height/weight. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using self-reported height and weight. A one-way MANCOVA was used to determine differences in HRQOL variables between SM and heterosexual participants while controlling for BMI and gender. Results Participants (N = 690) were 19.9 ± 1.8 years old, mostly female (63%), and white (83%). Twenty-four % (n = 165) of students identified as SM. There were statistically significant differences in HRQOL between SM and heterosexual students, (F (6, 584) = 8.89, P < 0.001; Wilk's Λ = 0.916, partial η2 = 0.084). Compared to their heterosexual peers, SM students experienced more days per month (d/m) having poor mental health (14.5 ± 9.8 vs. 8.5 ± 8.7 days, P < 0.001); more d/m feeling sad/blue/depressed (12.0 ± 9.7 vs. 6.3 ± 7.8 days, P < 0.001); more d/m feeling worried/tense/anxious (18.1 ± 10.2 vs. 10.9 ± 9.8 days, P < 0.001); more d/m feeling they did not get enough sleep (13.8 ± 9.6 vs. 11.1 ± 9.0 days, P < 0.01); and fewer d/m feeling very healthy and full of energy (6.8 ± 6.5 vs. 11.4 ± 8.7 days, P < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in physical health. Conclusions This data confirms that SM college students experience similar health disparities observed in SM adolescent and adult populations. There is an apparent need for increased awareness of these disparities among healthcare professionals so that the appropriate interventions can be developed and implemented. This research provides justification for college aimed wellness interventions that advocate for health education and access to mental health resources to improve overall HRQOL, specifically for the LGBTQ + community. Funding Sources This project was supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, Hatch project number #ME0022104 through the Maine Agricultural & Forest Experiment Station. NJ Agriculture Experiment Station.