TLDR Hormone therapy affects cancer risks in transgender individuals differently than in cisgender people, and more research is needed to understand these risks and improve cancer screening guidelines.
Sex hormones play a vital role in the body's development and function, and are often used in hormone therapy for transgender individuals transitioning. However, these hormones also influence cancer risk. Therefore, studying the impact of sex hormones in both cisgender and transgender populations can enhance our understanding of their biological role in cancer, and help reduce health disparities.
166 citations,
October 2018 in “Endocrine Reviews” Hormone treatments for transgender individuals generally improve mental health and physical transition, with some health risks that require medical supervision.
19 citations,
February 2021 in “Journal of Clinical Investigation” More research is needed on the health effects of hormone therapy for transgender and nonbinary people.
October 2022 in “Springer eBooks” The document concludes that personalized hormonal treatments are important for transgender individuals and more research is needed for non-binary treatments.
32 citations,
September 2018 in “Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology” Hormone therapy for transgender females increases the risk of blood clots and requires careful dosing, monitoring, and lifelong management.
28 citations,
October 2018 in “Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology” Testosterone therapy seems safe and effective for transgender men with proper care, but more long-term research is needed.
17 citations,
December 2020 in “Journal of Genetic Counseling” Genetic counselors should be culturally skilled and aware of transgender patients' unique health risks and needs.