TLDR Gender-affirming hormone therapy may increase heart disease risk in transgender individuals.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy in transgender individuals is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and risk factors, as highlighted by recent evidence and a statement from the American Heart Association. This review emphasizes the need for cardiovascular-focused clinical management and further research into the effects of such therapy. It discusses known cardiovascular risk factors and potential molecular mechanisms from limited animal studies. The scarcity of data in this area underscores the necessity for future research to better inform clinicians and improve the quality of life for transgender patients through precision medicine.
14 citations
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October 2022 in “Journal of the American Heart Association” Lower testosterone levels may increase heart failure risk in older men.
19 citations
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April 2018 in “Clinical cardiology” Older men with low levels of a testosterone byproduct had a higher chance of developing an irregular heartbeat.
2170 citations
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September 2017 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for safe and effective hormone treatment in gender-dysphoric individuals, with specific guidelines for adolescents and adults.
2295 citations
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August 2012 in “The international journal of transgenderism/International journal of transgenderism” The guidelines recommend informed consent for gender-affirming treatments and stress the importance of personalized, culturally sensitive care for transgender individuals.
1744 citations
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August 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.
1 citations
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October 2022 in “Adolescent Health, Medicine and Therapeutics” Gender-affirming therapy can cause skin issues like acne and hair loss in transgender adolescents, and more research is needed on its dermatological effects.