Gay men
Men who are gay are attracted towards other men and enjoy sexual relationship with them. Gay men are a minority in society and their abnormal sexual orientation is condemned in certain societies. However in some societies their behavior is accepted as normal and they face no social censure. Due to their sexual orientation gay men are exposed to the increased threat of HIV and AIDS.
HIV threat- It is an acknowledged fact that men who perform sex with other men are vulnerable to the threat of HIV infection.
- Safe sex can be effective in diminishing the risk of HIV infection among gay men but many gay men enjoy unsafe sex practices.
- Though unsafe sex practices can enhance sexual pleasure it can also augment the threat from infection.
Substance abuse is widespread in the gay community. Gay men use a wide variety of substances kike amyl nitrate ("poppers"), to marijuana, Ecstasy, and amphetamines in order to enhance their sexual pleasure. These substances can lead to serious health consequences as the users mature in age.
Unlike the population in general, gay men are more prone to melancholy and nervousness. Gay men who remain isolated or do not have access to sufficient social support are likely to suffer from severe anxiety and depression. Adolescents and young adults who cannot communicate effectively with others and are confined to themselves may develop suicidal tendencies.
Gay men who prefer sex with other men are subjected to an augmented threat of sexually transmitted infection. They can be infected with the virus that results in serious complication of the liver referred to as hepatitis. These infections can have fatal consequences apart from resulting in long term complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Luckily, immunizations are obtainable to avert two of the three most severe viruses. It is advisable for all gay men to undergo universal immunization for Hepatitis A Virus and Hepatitis B Virus.
Gay men who are sexually active are exposed to the threat of Sexually transmitted diseases. This comprises STD infections for which suitable cure are obtainable. Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, pubic lice, and others are the several types of infections linked to sexually transmitted diseases. However for other infections such as HIV, Hepatitis A, B, or C virus, Human Papilloma Virus, no known treatment is available. However it is an acknowledged fact that safe sex reduces the risk of sexually transmitted diseases, and avoidance of these infections by means of safe sex is the solution to the problem. Prostate, testicular, or colon cancer are fatal maladies afflicting gay men.
Gay men have greater rates of alcohol addiction and abuse in comparison to men who are straight.
Gay men are also greatly inconvenienced by eating maladies for example bulimia or anorexia nervosa.
