Health is of vital importance to our LGBTQ community. We tend to lose sight of how our health is a
long-term investment that saves us visits to the physician, money, and a lot of stress. Entre Hermanos
believes that we have a right to a full life, free of preventable diseases. As lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender, and questioning people, we’re exposed to a whole series of social, psychological, and
physical factors, which are foreign to most heterosexuals.

The social pressure facing our sexual orientation, the psychological process we go through when coming
out of the closet, the physical risks we run when changing our gender, and questioning our realities are
factors that mine and expose our health. So visits to the physician should be routine and not only when
obligated by pains or fears we experience. Tests for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases should be
part of any medical check-up. And of course, using condoms in our sexual activities will help us prevent
risk situations that endanger our very lives.

Free yourself from tobacco. Don’t smoke your life—you smoke, you lose! Don’t forget that tobacco is
one of the main causes of cancer and lung disease. You deserve a clean environment, free of nicotine.
Take care of your heart and mind your blood pressure, your cholesterol, and your weight to prevent
heart disease, stroke, diabetes and an unending list of risk to your cardiovascular system.

Don’t let stigma and discrimination have an effect on your nervous system. If you think you’re suffering
from depression, get professional help and don’t allow your life to get colorless. Drugs and alcohol won’t
solve anything, but instead alter our social, emotional, and physical structures. Vaccines are important,
no matter what our age. Think about hepatitis A and B—if you’re vaccinated, you’re protected.

Domestic violence is a subject that few dare discuss. If you find it in your relationship, don’t hesitate to
get emotional help and a safe place to go. Entre Hermanos is there to guide you and give you a helping
hand when you need it.

http://www.metrokc.gov/health/index.htm