Abstract
Significance: The health of sexual minority women (SMW) (i.e. non-heterosexually identified women) in India has been largely missing in scientific literature, especially quantitative investigations. Understanding the prevalence of both risk and protective factors will assist in developing improved health interventions and future research directions. Objective: This project quantitatively examines sexual minority women's protective and risk factors for health in Mumbai, India Methods: Using community-based participatory research approaches, this study is part of an ongoing partnership with The Humsafar Trust, India's oldest and largest LGBT-adovcacy organization. Based on findings from an exploratory study of SMW in Mumbai's perceived health concerns, an online survey of SMW in Mumbai (n=49), included items in domains of physical health, substance use, sexuality, relationships, mental health, community engagement, and other health behaviors. The survey was provided in English and Hindi. Results: Preventative healthcare access is extremely limited for SMW, and mental health care needs are especially important. Substance use, namely alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana, may be higher than heterosexual women or other sexual minorities in India. Participants experienced violence from a variety of persons in their lives. Friends were the most common social support, with parents and partners making up a similar proportion of participants' networks. Conclusions: This exploratory study provides evidence for limited healthcare access and prevalent health risk behaviors. Based on the findings, recommendations for interventions to improve the health of SMW in Mumbai will be presented.
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