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Denmark
was the first country to introduce civil partnerships for
same sex couples in 1989, since when several European Union
countries, some US states, Australia and Canada have
followed suit.
Professor Michael King, of University College London, who
co-wrote the article, said: "Civil partnerships are
likely to break down some of the prejudice and promote
greater understanding, including among staff working in the
health service.
"Legal civil partnerships could increase the stability
of same sex relationships and minimise the social exclusion
to which gay and lesbian people are often subjected."
Research has shown that lesbians have higher risk of breast
cancer, heart disease and obesity, while gay men have a
higher risk of HIV, the article said.
Gay people are also more likely to suffer from depression,
drug abuse and suicidal urges than heterosexual
people. And the report said studies had shown those
who are in a stable relationship, of either the same or
opposite sex, enjoyed some health benefits.
It cited Swiss research which showed patients with HIV in
stable partnerships were more likely to progress more slowly
to Aids. Other studies have revealed that married same
sex couples had greater openness about their sexual
orientation and closer relationships with their relatives
than same sex couples not in civil partnerships. But
the doctors in the latest study added further research was
needed to prove the theory.
Andy Forrest, of Stonewall gay rights campaign group, said
the report was "logical" but it would be too early
to see if such an impact emerged in England and Wales.
"I think having civil partnerships is going to mean a
lot more security, financially, without the need to seek
legal recourse, which in turn means less stress and that
will be beneficial.
"There is also the issue of prejudice and hassle that
people can encounter in their every day lives, with the
rights these partnerships have this will be reduced."
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