Considerations in Genetic Counseling of Transgender Patients: Cultural Competencies and Altered Disease Risk Profiles

The document from December 26, 2020, emphasizes the need for genetic counselors to be culturally competent and aware of the unique healthcare needs and altered disease risk profiles of transgender patients. It discusses the importance of using gender-neutral language, respecting gender identity, and understanding the biopsychosocial nature of gender. The paper notes that hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries can affect the risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease and hormone-sensitive cancers, with varying risks reported for transgender individuals compared to cisgender populations. It also highlights the impact of social risk factors such as minority stress on health disparities. The document calls for inclusive practices in pedigree charting and physical examinations and stresses the need for more research on the health needs of transgender people, especially those from diverse backgrounds.