NICOTINE, DRUGS AND VIOLENCE: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE HEALTH OF SEXUAL MINORITIES IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Introduction: The abusive use of psychoactive substances among the LGBT population, although an individual and subjective process, is believed to reflect coping strategies for dealing with negative feelings such as insecurity and anxiety related to the acceptance of one’s sexual orientation, as well as ways of coping with situations of violence resulting from transphobia. The nicotine and the other illicit drugs are considered harmful to the population. More than 60 chronic and acute diseases, in addition to various social and psychological problems, are associated with Nicotine consumption.

Objective of the study: This research is relevant because it contributes to a better understanding of the risk situations and harms to which the LGBT population is exposed. Such understanding may help identify their real needs and, from a multidisciplinary perspective, support the development of preventive actions to address the various problems associated with the abusive use of Nicotine and drugs in this population, such as chronic and acute health problems, violence, traffic accidents, risky sexual behaviours, and suicide attempts.

Method: A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted with LGBT individuals approached during a well-known protest event, held in the cities of Lahore and Faisalabad during July 2025. 316 LGBTI individuals were selected of the basis of their free and informed consent in Lahore Pakistan. The questionnaires containing different question were distributed among these LGBTI individuals. Those who are uneducated were allowed to be assisted by the healthcare workers.

Results: Participants who experienced psychological/verbal violence reported higher drug use compared to those who experienced other types of violence. Most participants used drugs once or twice per month, which classifies them as “non-users” according to DUSI-R criteria. Among those classified as “users,” the most frequent consumption was three to nine times per month across all types of violence. High-frequency use (>20 times/month) was most common among individuals who experienced psychological/verbal violence (58.8%). Discussion: LGBT individuals have great impact on their mental health due to physiological, psychological and social injustice which they suffer throw out their life18. They face these torchers which give them depression. They are left with no option except to use these psychoactive substances to co with the situations of immorality. The evidence from different studies carried out in Pakistan LGBTI individuals indicate that these transgenders are more dependent on psychoactive substances as compare to normal persons. Final Consideration: Despite the insights gained, some limitations exist. The study relies on self-reported experiences of violence, drug use in the past 30 days (type and frequency), and associated health problems, which may affect generalizability. LGBTI individuals are at high risk due to marginalized population not supported by public or private organizations. Hence, they are at greater risk of developing addiction.