Intersection

Intersection is a term used in various fields of study, including mathematics, set theory, and logic, to denote the point or set of points common to two or more geometric configurations. In the context of health and medicine, intersectionality refers to the study of overlapping or intersecting social identities and related systems of oppression, domination, or discrimination.

Definition

The term 'intersection' is derived from the Latin 'intersectio', which means 'a going between, a meeting point'. In mathematics, an intersection is the set of common elements between two or more sets. In the context of health and medicine, intersectionality is a theoretical framework for understanding how aspects of a person's social and political identities (e.g., gender, race, class, sexuality, disability, etc.) might combine to create unique modes of discrimination and privilege.

Intersectionality in Health and Medicine

Intersectionality in health and medicine is a growing field of study that seeks to understand how multiple social categories intersect at the micro level of individual experience to reflect multiple interlocking systems of privilege and oppression at the macro, social-structural level (e.g., racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, ableism, etc.).

Health Disparities

Intersectionality is a useful tool for understanding and addressing health disparities. It allows for the examination of how various social identities intersect and influence health outcomes. For example, a person who identifies as a low-income, African American, transgender woman may face unique health challenges that are not fully captured when considering each of these identities in isolation.

Health Care Access

Intersectionality also plays a role in health care access. Individuals with intersecting identities may face multiple barriers to accessing health care, including discrimination, stigma, and lack of culturally competent care.

See Also

• Health Disparities
• Social Determinants of Health
• Cultural Competency in Health Care
• Health Care Access

References

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Intersection

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  Venn diagram showing intersection
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  Circle and line intersection
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  Non-pairwise disjoint family of sets
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  Road intersection exemplifying set intersection