Effects of mental health and substance use disorder symptoms on the association between STDs and sexual identity: evidence from the 2017–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

Abstract Background Sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases are rising in the USA, especially among sexual and gender minorities, despite availability of numerous STD prevention programs. We examined differences prevalence minority subgroups with major depressive episode symptoms substance use dependence. Methods combined 2017, 2018, 2019 National Survey on Drug Use Health (NSDUH) public-use data adults ( N = 127,584) to conduct weighted multivariable logistic regression margins analyses. Results Approximately 2.05% population reported having STDs. The that had (AOR 1.70, 95% CI 1.46, 1.99), alcohol dependence 1.79, 1.49, 2.16), illicit drug other than marijuana 2.25, 1.73, 2.92), or 1.90, 1.57, 2.31) higher odds contracting STDs compared their counterparts. Lesbian/gay 2.81, 2.24, 3.54) bisexual 1.95, 1.60, 2.37) individuals Lesbians/gays symptoms, dependence, highest probability STDs, bisexuals heterosexuals use, Bisexuals contraction lesbian/gay heterosexual Within each identity subgroup, was for Conclusion Major status risks diagnosis, particularly minorities Tailored interventions based may reduce STD, minorities.