In a landmark analysis, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed stark disparities in mortality rates between LGB+ and straight or heterosexual people in England and Wales. The first official study of its kind, using data from the 2021 census, shows that people identifying as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or another minority sexual orientation face a significantly higher risk of premature death.
Key Findings: A Profound Mortality Gap
The ONS analysis, covering deaths from March 2021 to November 2024, found that LGB+ people had 1.3 times the overall risk of dying compared to their straight counterparts. The age-standardised death rate was 982.8 per 100,000 for LGB+ individuals, against 752.6 per 100,000 for straight or heterosexual people.
While coronary heart disease was the leading cause of death across all groups, the data uncovered alarming trends for specific causes within the LGB+ community. Most strikingly, suicide was the second most common cause of death for LGB+ people, accounting for 7.1% of all deaths in this group.
Youth Suicide and Substance-Related Deaths
The risk is particularly acute among younger LGB+ adults. The analysis shows that nearly half (45.3%) of all deaths among LGB+ 16- to 24-year-olds were by suicide, compared to 26.6% for straight people of the same age. For those aged 25-34, the figures were 29.6% for LGB+ individuals versus 18.4% for straight people.
Furthermore, the data highlights severe inequalities in deaths related to substance use. The risk of dying from drug poisoning was 2.8 times higher for LGB+ people, and the risk from alcohol-related causes was 1.8 times higher than for those identifying as straight.
Calls for Action and Specialised Support
Dr Emma Sharland of the ONS stated that while the analysis does not explore causality, it provides crucial data to inform health professionals and those working with different population groups. The figures underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions.
Mark Winstanley, chief executive of Rethink Mental Illness, responded to the findings with deep concern. "The causes of suicide are complex, but we know that LGBTQ+ people face discrimination in many areas of their lives and encounter harassment, from physical attacks to online hatred," he said.
Winstanley emphasised the vital role of organisations providing specialised support due to stigma in traditional services and called for continued funding to ensure their survival. "Today’s data reinforces the urgent need to address the risk factors that LGBTQ+ people face," he added, stressing the importance of accessible mental health services.
The 2021 census marked the first time people in England and Wales were asked about their sexual orientation, enabling this groundbreaking analysis. The ONS used the acronym 'LGB+' in its research. The publication of this data is expected to be a catalyst for policy change and improved healthcare provision for sexual minority groups across the UK.
