Only in America: Studying homosexual habits
The federal government studies the weight tendencies of gay men versus lesbians — and more in our collection of strange revelations about the nation
The federal government has spent almost $3 million since 2011 on scientific studies aimed at understanding why nearly three quarters of adult lesbians are either overweight or obese, but most gay males are not. One paper published last year concluded that gay males "had a greater desire for toned muscles," while another report said many lesbians lack "athletic self-esteem."
Making sense of the week's political news, delivered every Wednesday
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.