Full Answer Section

• Sexual Orientation: This refers to a person’s enduring emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions to other people. Common sexual orientations include:
  • Lesbian: A woman who is primarily attracted to other women.
  • Gay: A man who is primarily attracted to other men. This term is sometimes used as an umbrella term for homosexual individuals regardless of gender.
  • Bisexual: A person who is attracted to more than one gender (e.g., both men and women; or attraction across a wider range of gender identities).
  • Heterosexual: A person who is primarily attracted to people of the opposite gender.
  • Asexual: A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction.
• Transgender: This is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. A transgender man was assigned female at birth but identifies as a man. A transgender woman was assigned male at birth but identifies as ¹ a woman. Some transgender individuals identify as non-binary, meaning their gender identity is neither exclusively man nor woman.  
  1. academic.oup.com.fiss.iaha.eu

  academic.oup.com.fiss.iaha.eu
• Cisgender: This term describes people whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.

Social and Political Context:

The lives of LGBT individuals are profoundly shaped by the social and political environments in which they live. This context is often characterized by:

• Stigma and Discrimination: LGBT individuals frequently face societal stigma, prejudice, and discrimination in various aspects of life, including family, education, employment, housing, and healthcare. This can manifest as microaggressions, overt hostility, legal disadvantages, and systemic inequalities.
• Legal Recognition (or Lack Thereof): Legal protections and recognition of LGBT rights vary significantly across countries and even within regions. Laws regarding same-sex marriage, adoption, gender identity recognition, and anti-discrimination can have a substantial impact on the well-being and social inclusion of LGBT individuals. In Kenya, for instance, same-sex sexual activity remains criminalized, and legal recognition of transgender identities is limited, contributing to a climate of fear and discrimination.
• Cultural Norms and Values: Prevailing cultural norms and religious beliefs often influence societal attitudes towards LGBT people. Negative stereotypes and moral judgments can lead to social exclusion, family rejection, and internalized stigma.
• Activism and Advocacy: LGBT communities and their allies actively engage in social and political movements to advocate for their rights, challenge discriminatory laws and practices, and promote understanding and acceptance. These efforts play a crucial role in shaping the social and political landscape.
• Media Representation: The way LGBT individuals are portrayed in the media can significantly influence public perception, either reinforcing negative stereotypes or promoting positive and accurate understanding.

Social Determinants of Health Affecting Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Individuals:

Social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. LGBT individuals are disproportionately affected by several social determinants:

• Socioeconomic Status: Discrimination in employment and housing can lead to lower income, limited economic opportunities, and increased rates of poverty among LGBT individuals. This can restrict access to essential resources, including healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing.