New action plan to tackle health issues affecting gay and bisexual men

A new action plan has been launched by Public Health England to tackle health and wellbeing inequalities that specifically affect men who have sex with men.

It will focus on three interrelated areas in which gay, bisexual and trans men are disproportionately burdened with ill health: sexual health and HIV, mental health and the use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Efforts will be made to reduce the number of new HIV infections, improve the rate of self-reported mental ill health issues and lower the number of substance abusers in this vulnerable population.

Men who have sex with men continue to be the group most affected by HIV infection and are twice as likely to be depressed, anxious or be dependent on alcohol as other men. Their susceptibility to heart disease, asthma and diabetes is also higher.

Professor Kevin Fenton, director of health and wellbeing at Public Health England, said: "This structured programme of action will work with and support the public health system, private and third sector organisations to actively respond to the needs of these communities locally."