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Dijkman BAM, Liberton NPTJ, te Slaa S, Smit JM, Wiepjes CM, Dreijerink KMA, den Heijer M, Verdaasdonk RM, de Blok CJM. A comparative study of 3D measuring methods for monitoring breast volume changes. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305059. [PMID: 38843166 PMCID: PMC11156285 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) imaging techniques are promising new tools for measuring breast volume, for example in gender-affirming therapy. Transgender individuals can be treated with gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). A robust method for monitoring breast volume changes is critical to be able to study the effects of feminizing GAHT. The primary aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of three 3D devices (Vectra XT, Artec LEO and iPhone XR) for measuring modest breast volume differences using a mannequin. The secondary aim of this study was to evaluate these methods in several performance domains. We used reference prostheses of increasing volumes and compared the volumes using GOM-inspect software. For Vectra XT 3D images, manufacturer-provided software was used to calculate volumes as well. The scanning methods were ranked based on their performance in a total of five categories: volume estimations, costs, user-friendliness, test subject-friendliness and technical aspects. The 3D models analyzed with GOM-inspect showed relative mean estimate differences from the actual volumes of 9.1% for the Vectra XT, 7.3% for the Artec LEO and 14% for the iPhone XR. For the Vectra XT models analyzed with the built-in software this was 6.2%. Root mean squared errors (RMSE) calculated based on the GOM-inspect volume analyses showed mean RMSEs of 2.27, 2.54 and 8.93 for the Vectra XT, Artec LEO and iPhone XR, respectively. The Vectra software had a mean RMSE of 3.00. In the combined performance ranking, the Vectra XT had the most favorable ranking, followed by the Artec LEO and the iPhone XR. The Vectra XT and Artec LEO are the preferred scanners to monitor breast development due to the combination of higher accuracy and overall performance. The current study shows that 3D techniques can be used to adequately measure modest breast volume differences and therefore will be useful to study for example breast changes in transgender individuals using feminizing GAHT. These observations may also be relevant in other fields of 3D imaging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benthe A. M. Dijkman
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Niels P. T. J. Liberton
- Department of Medical Technology, 3D Innovation Lab, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd te Slaa
- Department of Medical Technology, 3D Innovation Lab, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Maerten Smit
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Chantal M. Wiepjes
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Koen M. A. Dreijerink
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rudolf M. Verdaasdonk
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Health Technology Implementation, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Christel J. M. de Blok
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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2
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Fowler JA, Warzywoda S, Reyment M, Crilly T, Franks N, Bisshop F, Wood P, Dean JA. One person, many changes: a socioecological qualitative analysis of the experiences of transfeminine individuals undergoing feminising gender-affirming hormone therapy. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38829652 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2358099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) comes with many physical, psychological, and social changes that are often considered in isolation. This research uses a socioecological lens with a sample of 15 Australian transfeminine individuals to investigate the changes experienced during GAHT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2022, with verbatim transcripts analysed using deductive thematic analysis with Bronfenbrenner's Socioecological Model (SEM) as a framework. Analyses revealed two themes intersecting multiple levels of the SEM. Theme 1 contained two sub-themes and broadly encapsulated how interactions with others influenced GAHT experiences. Sub-theme 1 spoke to how stigma creates positive or negative experiences (through the macrosystem, the exosystem, and proximal processes), while sub-theme 2 described how GAHT causes internal changes that promoted stronger interpersonal relationships (person and proximal processes). Theme 2 described how changes occurred over time, with some changes being temporary, and others being delayed (person and time). These themes highlight the interconnected nature of the physical, psychological, and social changes and experiences that can occur during GAHT. Best-practice care for trans people undergoing GAHT needs to be multi-faceted and holistic in order to embed support across different SEM components.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Fowler
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Sarah Warzywoda
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Mera Reyment
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Psychology, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Tyson Crilly
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Psychology, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Nia Franks
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, Centre for Health Research, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD, Australia
| | - Fiona Bisshop
- Holdsworth House Medical Practice, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Penny Wood
- Alexander Heights Family Practice, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Judith A Dean
- The University of Queensland, Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Herston, QLD, Australia
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Milionis C, Ilias I, Milioni SO, Venaki E, Koukkou E. Caring for the Older Transgender Adults: Social, Nursing, and Medical Challenges. Clin Nurs Res 2024; 33:277-284. [PMID: 38339880 DOI: 10.1177/10547738241231054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Aging is a challenging process for people with gender nonconformity. Indeed, the older transgender population faces several disparities in accessing and using health care and social support services. Furthermore, the clinical management of gender transition in later life is empirical since clear research evidence is lacking. This paper aimed to present the problems encountered by older transgender adults in their access to social support and health care and to propose insightful solutions to address them both from a social and medical/nursing perspective. Trans elders face profound disparities in health and social care due to factors associated with limited accessibility to health services, social restrictions, administrative failures, and physical vulnerabilities. The medical treatment of older transgender adults also needs a careful approach to achieve satisfying gender affirmation without clinically significant risks. The potential induction of hormone-sensitive malignancies and the provocation of major adverse vascular events are the main concerns. Gender transition in older adults without a prior history of following gender-affirming therapy is challenging due to biological factors related to advanced age. Caring for elderly trans people unfolds at multiple levels. International organizations and governmental bodies should address the underprivileged status of elderly transgender people by creating and implementing inclusive policies. Safe and respectful clinical and residential environments and the formation of clearer medical guidelines could meet the unique needs of older trans adults. Care providers must advocate for their patients and be equipped to provide safe and effective services.
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Jasuja GK, Wolfe HL, Reisman JI, Vimalananda VG, Rao SR, Blosnich JR, Livingston NA, Shipherd JC. Clinicians in the Veterans Health Administration initiate gender-affirming hormone therapy in concordance with clinical guideline recommendations. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1086158. [PMID: 38800485 PMCID: PMC11116601 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1086158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is a common medical intervention sought by transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals. Initiating GAHT in accordance with clinical guideline recommendations ensures delivery of high-quality care. However, no prior studies have examined how current GAHT initiation compares to recommended GAHT initiation. Objective This study assessed guideline concordance around feminizing and masculinizing GAHT initiation in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods The sample included 4,676 veterans with a gender identity disorder diagnosis who initiated feminizing (n=3,547) and masculinizing (n=1,129) GAHT between 2007 and 2018 in VHA. Demographics and health conditions on veterans receiving feminizing and masculinizing GAHT were assessed. Proportion of guideline concordant veterans on six VHA guidelines on feminizing and masculinizing GAHT initiation were determined. Results Compared to veterans receiving masculinizing GAHT, a higher proportion of veterans receiving feminizing GAHT were older (≥60 years: 23.7% vs. 6.3%), White non-Hispanic (83.5% vs. 57.6%), and had a higher number of comorbidities (≥7: 14.0% vs. 10.6%). A higher proportion of veterans receiving masculinizing GAHT were Black non-Hispanic (21.5% vs. 3.5%), had posttraumatic stress disorder (43.0% vs. 33.9%) and positive military sexual trauma (33.5% vs.16.8%; all p-values<0.001) than veterans receiving feminizing GAHT. Among veterans who started feminizing GAHT with estrogen, 97.0% were guideline concordant due to no documentation of contraindication, including venous thromboembolism, breast cancer, stroke, or myocardial infarction. Among veterans who started spironolactone as part of feminizing GAHT, 98.1% were guideline concordant as they had no documentation of contraindication, including hyperkalemia or acute renal failure. Among veterans starting masculinizing GAHT, 90.1% were guideline concordant due to no documentation of contraindications, such as breast or prostate cancer. Hematocrit had been measured in 91.8% of veterans before initiating masculinizing GAHT, with 96.5% not having an elevated hematocrit (>50%) prior to starting masculinizing GAHT. Among veterans initiating feminizing and masculinizing GAHT, 91.2% had documentation of a gender identity disorder diagnosis prior to GAHT initiation. Conclusion We observed high concordance between current GAHT initiation practices in VHA and guidelines, particularly for feminizing GAHT. Findings suggest that VHA clinicians are initiating feminizing GAHT in concordance with clinical guidelines. Future work should assess guideline concordance on monitoring and management of GAHT in VHA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guneet K. Jasuja
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, Veteran Affairs (VA) Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, United States
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hill L. Wolfe
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Pain Research, Informatics, Multi-morbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
- Section of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Joel I. Reisman
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, Veteran Affairs (VA) Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Varsha G. Vimalananda
- Center for Healthcare Organization & Implementation Research, Veteran Affairs (VA) Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, United States
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sowmya R. Rao
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - John R. Blosnich
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jillian C. Shipherd
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- LGBTQ+ Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, United States
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5
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Draper L, Vikas A, Das S, Yadav S, Walker F, Bandilovska I. Electroconvulsive Therapy in Transgender and Gender Diverse Population: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Case Rep Psychiatry 2024; 2024:5552781. [PMID: 38746078 PMCID: PMC11093682 DOI: 10.1155/2024/5552781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Present a case of a transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individual receiving gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) who presented with first episode bipolar mania and received electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). To understand the safety and efficacy of ECT in the TGD population including those receiving GAHT through literature review. Materials and Methods Case report using informed consent from an individual TGD patient who received ECT. A review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Medline. Results The case illustrated safe and effective ECT use in a TGD individual receiving GAHT. Eight studies were reviewed. GAHT has been reported to interfere with certain anaesthetic agents used in ECT. ECT appeared to be a safe and effective treatment in the TGD samples in those studies. Conclusion There is limited literature on the safety and efficacy of ECT for TGD individuals receiving GAHT. More research is required to address mental health inequalities in this population and to support safe and effective gender affirming treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan Draper
- North West Area Mental Health Service Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ashis Vikas
- Northern Area Mental Health Service Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Subhash Das
- Northern Area Mental Health Service Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Suresh Yadav
- Northern Area Mental Health Service Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Frances Walker
- Northern Area Mental Health Service Northern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Falck FAOK, Dhejne CMU, Frisén LMM, Armuand GM. Subjective Experiences of Pregnancy, Delivery, and Nursing in Transgender Men and Non-Binary Individuals: A Qualitative Analysis of Gender and Mental Health Concerns. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1981-2002. [PMID: 38228983 PMCID: PMC11106200 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02787-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Studies of how gender-diverse individuals experience pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing remain few, mainly focus on the US and contain scarce information about mental health concerns peri-partum. This hinders informed reproductive health decisions and counseling. We used in-depth interviews to examine how gestational gender-diverse individuals in Sweden experience the process of planning and undergoing pregnancy, delivery, and nursing. In total, 12 participants, identifying on the masculine side of the gender spectrum or as non-binary, who had attended Swedish antenatal care and delivered a live birth, were included in the study. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic content analysis. The analysis resulted in one overarching theme: sustaining gender congruence during pregnancy and three main categories: (1) considering pregnancy; (2) undergoing pregnancy and childbirth; and (3) postnatal reflections. The association between childbearing and being regarded as female permeated narratives. Participants renegotiated the feminine connotations of pregnancy, accessed gender-affirming treatment, and concealed their pregnancy to safeguard their gender congruence. Mis-gendering and breast enlargement triggered gender dysphoria. Social judgment, loneliness, information shortages, hormonal influence and cessation of testosterone increased gender dysphoria and strained their mental health. Depression exacerbated gender dysphoria and made it harder to claim one's gender identity. Dissociation was used to handle a feminized body, vaginal delivery, and nursing. Pregnancy was easier to envision and handle after masculinizing gender-affirming treatments. The results deepen the understanding of gender dysphoria and may be used to inform reproductive counseling and healthcare development. Research outcomes on mental health concerns provide a basis for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicitas A O K Falck
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Psychiatry Southwest, Karolinska University Hospital in Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia M U Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 76, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise M M Frisén
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gabriela M Armuand
- School of Health and Welfare, Faculty of Health Sciences 1, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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7
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Yang KJ, Kerr C, Rumps MV, Mulcahey M. Musculoskeletal and cardiovascular considerations for transgender athletes. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38605534 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2024.2342230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Participation in athletics is essential for the overall well-being of transgender athletes and should be included as part of gender-affirming care. Surveys show physicians and athletic trainers want to provide appropriate care for transgender athletes but lack the proper knowledge and training to do so. Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) is part of gender-affirming care, yet the effects of GAHT on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health of transgender athletes is not well-understood. The purpose of this review was to discuss important musculoskeletal and cardiovascular considerations unique to transgender athletes and improve physician understanding in caring for transgender athletes. METHODS A representative selection of literature on the effects of GAHT on cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health was included in this review. RESULTS Estrogen therapy may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and stroke, and decrease blood pressure levels among transgender women, while studies on lipid profile are inconsistent among both transgender men and women. Transgender women receiving GAHT may also be at greater risk for bone fracture and ligamentous injuries. CONCLUSION Exercise is essential for the well-being of transgender individuals and special considerations regarding the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health of transgender athletes should be incorporated into standard medical education. Educational programs for transgender patients and their support team should focus on preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of adverse musculoskeletal and cardiovascular events. The PPE is an invaluable tool available to physicians to monitor the health and safety of transgender athletes and should be regularly updated as research on the health of transgender individuals continues to grow. Longitudinal and prospective studies should examine the effects of GAHT on the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health of transgender athletes. Lastly, health care providers play an important role in the advancement of gender-neutral policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailynn J Yang
- Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Canaan Kerr
- Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Mia V Rumps
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Mary Mulcahey
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, USA
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8
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Wolfe HL, Vimalananda VG, Wong DH, Reisman JI, Rao SR, Shipherd JC, Blosnich JR, Livingston NA, Jasuja GK. Patient Characteristics Associated with Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in the Veterans Health Administration. Transgend Health 2024; 9:151-161. [PMID: 38694620 PMCID: PMC11059777 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2022.0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to examine patient characteristics associated with receipt of gender-affirming hormone therapy in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods This cross-sectional study included a national cohort of 9555 transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients with TGD-related diagnosis codes who received care in the VHA from 2006 to 2018. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association of health conditions and documented social stressors with receipt of gender affirming hormone therapy. Results Of the 9555 TGD patients, 57.4% received gender-affirming hormone therapy in the VHA. In fully adjusted models, patients who had following characteristics were less likely to obtain gender-affirming hormones in the VHA: Black, non-Hispanic versus white (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-0.72), living in the Northeast versus the West (aOR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.62-0.84), a documented drug use disorder (aOR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.47-0.68), ≥3 versus no comorbidities (aOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.34-0.57), and ≥3 versus no social stressors (aOR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.30-0.58; all p<0.001). Younger patients aged 21-29 years were almost 3 times more likely to receive gender affirming hormone therapy in the VHA than those aged ≥60 (aOR: 2.98; 95% CI: 2.55-3.47; p<0.001). Conclusion TGD individuals who were older, Black, non-Hispanic, and had more comorbidities and documented social stressors were less likely to receive gender-affirming hormone therapy in the VHA. Further understanding of patient preferences in addition to clinician- and site-level determinants that may impact access to gender-affirming hormone therapy for TGD individuals in the VHA is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hill L. Wolfe
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Varsha G. Vimalananda
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Denise H. Wong
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joel I. Reisman
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sowmya R. Rao
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jillian C. Shipherd
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- LGBTQ+ Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John R. Blosnich
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Guneet K. Jasuja
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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O'Leary KB, Rufino KA, Patriquin MA, Kapoor S. Gender Identity and Mental Health Symptom Severity Among Adolescents Admitted to an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024:10.1007/s10578-024-01674-6. [PMID: 38446365 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-024-01674-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Transgender youth are at an increased risk of suicide, substance use, experiencing violent assaults, and reporting major depressive episodes and greater psychological distress compared to their cisgender counterparts. This study examined mental health symptom severity in adolescents admitted to an inpatient psychiatric hospital who wished they were of a different gender compared to those who did not. A group of 180 adolescents admitted to an inpatient psychiatric hospital completed assessments to measure mental health symptom severity at admission. Gender diverse (n = 90) and cisgender (n = 90) groups were established. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) were used to examine between group (gender diverse vs. cisgender) difference on depression, anxiety, suicide risk, nighttime sleep quality, and emotion regulation problems. Results revealed significant differences in emotion regulation difficulties at admission, specifically in nonacceptance and awareness. There were no significant differences on measures of depression, anxiety, suicide risk, and nighttime sleep quality at admission. This study is one of the first to measure mental health symptom severity in gender diverse adolescents while admitted to an inpatient psychiatric setting. Adolescents in the gender diverse group had significantly higher level of difficulty with emotion regulation, which may indicate an increased risk of developing psychiatric symptoms such as depression and anxiety. This paper demonstrates the importance of using targeted interventions to address difficulties with emotion regulation in at-risk adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry B O'Leary
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. Kerry.O'
| | - Katrina A Rufino
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA
- University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michelle A Patriquin
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- The Menninger Clinic, Houston, TX, USA
- Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shweta Kapoor
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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10
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Planz O, Kircheis R. Editorial: The role of toll-like receptors and their related signaling pathways in viral infection and inflammation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1363958. [PMID: 38312836 PMCID: PMC10835273 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1363958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Planz
- Institute for Immunology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ralf Kircheis
- Department of R&D, Syntacoll GmbH, Saal an der Donau, Germany
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11
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Cartier L, Guérin M, Saulnier F, Cotocea I, Mohammedi A, Moussaoui F, Kheloui S, Juster RP. Sex and gender correlates of sexually polymorphic cognition. Biol Sex Differ 2024; 15:3. [PMID: 38191503 PMCID: PMC10773055 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00579-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually polymorphic cognition (SPC) results from the interaction between biological (birth-assigned sex (BAS), sex hormones) and socio-cultural (gender identity, gender roles, sexual orientation) factors. The literature remains quite mixed regarding the magnitude of the effects of these variables. This project used a battery of classic cognitive tests designed to assess the influence of sex hormones on cognitive performance. At the same time, we aimed to assess the inter-related and respective effects that BAS, sex hormones, and gender-related factors have on SPC. METHODS We recruited 222 adults who completed eight cognitive tasks that assessed a variety of cognitive domains during a 150-min session. Subgroups were separated based on gender identity and sexual orientation and recruited as follows: cisgender heterosexual men (n = 46), cisgender non-heterosexual men (n = 36), cisgender heterosexual women (n = 36), cisgender non-heterosexual women (n = 38), gender diverse (n = 66). Saliva samples were collected before, during, and after the test to assess testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone. Psychosocial variables were derived from self-report questionnaires. RESULTS Cognitive performance reflects sex and gender differences that are partially consistent with the literature. Interestingly, biological factors seem to better explain differences in male-typed cognitive tasks (i.e., spatial), while psychosocial factors seem to better explain differences in female-typed cognitive tasks (i.e., verbal). CONCLUSION Our results establish a better comprehension of SPC over and above the effects of BAS as a binary variable. We highlight the importance of treating sex as a biological factor and gender as a socio-cultural factor together since they collectively influence SPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Cartier
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mina Guérin
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Fanny Saulnier
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ioana Cotocea
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
| | - Amine Mohammedi
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Fadila Moussaoui
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sarah Kheloui
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Robert-Paul Juster
- Center on Sex*Gender, Allostasis, and Resilience, Research Center of the Montreal Mental Health University Institute, 7331, Rue Hochelaga, Montreal, QC, H1N 3V2, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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12
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Douglas M, White RT, Sankey K, Gallegos Aragon K. Pharmacist guide for providing gender-affirming care: dispensing and beyond. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:212-217. [PMID: 37839698 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
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Pliensak N, Suwan A, Panyakhamlerd K, Bumphenkiatikul T, Wainipitapong S. Mental Health of Transmasculine Adults Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in Thailand. Transgend Health 2023; 8:509-515. [PMID: 38213531 PMCID: PMC10777821 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Many studies have shown conflicting results regarding mental health among transmasculine adults or transgender men (TM). This study aimed to identify the prevalence of depression among Thai TM receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). Methods All TM, over 18 years of age, who received GAHT for at least three consecutive months were invited to complete a self-report questionnaire that covered participants' demographic and clinical data. Mental health, including depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QoL), was assessed. We reported the prevalence of mental illnesses and examined the correlations between mental health scores and other associated data. Results A total of 84 TM were included in the analysis. Major depression and generalized anxiety disorder were detected in 14.3% and 3.6%, respectively. Depression severity was negatively associated with age and QoL. Depression and anxiety severity were found to be positively associated. Conclusions Compared with the general Thai population, the prevalence of mental health problems among Thai TM receiving GAHT was higher. Age of maturity may be a potential mental health protective factor, and assessment in younger individuals may benefit mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napon Pliensak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ammarin Suwan
- Division of Gender, Sexual, and Climacteric Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Krasean Panyakhamlerd
- Division of Gender, Sexual, and Climacteric Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanapob Bumphenkiatikul
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Academic Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sorawit Wainipitapong
- Center of Excellence in Transgender Health (CETH), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
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Tordoff DM, Lunn MR, Chen B, Flentje A, Dastur Z, Lubensky ME, Capriotti M, Obedin-Maliver J. Testosterone use and sexual function among transgender men and gender diverse people assigned female at birth. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:669.e1-669.e17. [PMID: 37678647 PMCID: PMC11182338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.08.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone use among transgender people likely impacts their experience of sexual function and vulvovaginal pain via several complex pathways. Testosterone use is associated with decreased estrogen in the vagina and atrophic vaginal tissue, which may be associated with decreased vaginal lubrication and/or discomfort during sexual activity. At the same time, increased gender affirmation through testosterone use may be associated with improved sexual function. However, data on pelvic and vulvovaginal pain among transgender men and nonbinary people assigned female at birth are scarce. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the association between testosterone and sexual function with a focus on symptoms that are commonly associated with vaginal atrophy. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1219 participants aged 18 to 72 years using data collected from 2019 to 2021 from an online, prospective, longitudinal cohort study of sexual and/or gender minority people in the United States (The Population Research in Identity and Disparities for Equality Study). Our analysis included adult transgender men and gender diverse participants assigned female at birth who were categorized as never, current, and former testosterone users. Sexual function was measured across 8 Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sexual Function and Satisfaction domains. RESULTS Overall, 516 (42.3%) participants had never used testosterone, and 602 (49.4%) currently used testosterone. The median duration of use was 37.7 months (range, 7 days to >27 years). Most participants (64.6%) reported genital pain or discomfort during sexual activity in the past 30 days, most commonly in the vagina or frontal genital opening (52.2%), followed by around the clitoris (29.1%) and labia (24.5%). Current testosterone use was associated with a greater interest in sexual activity (β=6.32; 95% confidence interval, 4.91-7.74), higher ability to orgasm (β=1.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-2.81), and more vaginal pain or discomfort during sexual activity (β=1.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.61-3.00). No associations were observed between current testosterone use and satisfaction with sex life, lubrication, labial pain or discomfort, or orgasm pleasure. CONCLUSION Testosterone use among transgender men and gender diverse people was associated with an increased interest in sexual activity and the ability to orgasm, as well as with vaginal pain or discomfort during sexual activity. Notably, the available evidence demonstrates that >60% of transgender men experience vulvovaginal pain during sexual activity. The causes of pelvic and vulvovaginal pain are poorly understood but are likely multifactorial and include physiological (eg, testosterone-associated vaginal atrophy) and psychological factors (eg, gender affirmation). Given this high burden, there is an urgent need to identify effective and acceptable interventions for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bertha Chen
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Annesa Flentje
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Zubin Dastur
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
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Yaish I, Gindis G, Greenman Y, Moshe Y, Arbiv M, Buch A, Sofer Y, Shefer G, Tordjman K. Sublingual Estradiol Offers No Apparent Advantage Over Combined Oral Estradiol and Cyproterone Acetate for Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy of Treatment-Naive Trans Women: Results of a Prospective Pilot Study. Transgend Health 2023; 8:485-493. [PMID: 38130980 PMCID: PMC10732161 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2023.0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Chronic gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) with sublingual estradiol (SLE) has not been studied. We aimed to compare GAHT with SLE only, to combined oral (CO) estradiol and cyproterone acetate, in treatment-naive trans women. Methods Twenty-two trans women enrolled into either the CO arm or the SLE-only arm (0.5 mg four times daily) in this 6-month prospective study. Anthropometric and laboratory variables were collected at baseline and 3 and 6 months. At the study beginning and end, body composition was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance, and gender dysphoria, sexual desire, and function were assessed by validated questionnaires. Results Subjects in the SLE were older, 26.3±5.8 years versus 20.1±2.3 years, p=0.006. All anthropometric, body composition, and laboratory variables were identical at baseline. Although dysphoria appeared greater, and sexual function lower at baseline in the CO group, this canceled out after age adjustment. Both treatments induced similar biochemical and hormonal changes. Creatinine, hemoglobin and cholesterol decreased significantly, while testosterone was suppressed to the same level in both groups: 3.22 [1.47-5.0] nmol/L in the SLE group and 2.41 [0.55-8.5] nmol/L in the CO, p=0.65. Significant changes in body composition toward a more feminine body were noted in both groups. Dysphoria did not significantly improve in either group, while sexual desire and function decreased at six months in both, p<0.001. Conclusions Both treatments achieved similar clinical changes. At this stage, SLE, which repeatedly induces alarming excursions of serum estradiol throughout the day, appears to offer no advantage over the CO approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Yaish
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Guy Gindis
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Yona Greenman
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Yaffa Moshe
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mira Arbiv
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Assaf Buch
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Yael Sofer
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Gabi Shefer
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Karen Tordjman
- Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
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16
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Moustakli E, Tsonis O. Exploring Hormone Therapy Effects on Reproduction and Health in Transgender Individuals. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2094. [PMID: 38138197 PMCID: PMC10744413 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Transgender individuals often face elevated mental health challenges due to gender dysphoria, but gender-affirming treatments such as surgery and hormone therapy have been linked to significant improvements in mental well-being. The potential influence of time and circadian rhythms on these treatments is prevalent. The intricate interplay between hormones, clock genes, and fertility is profound, acknowledging the complexity of reproductive health in transgender individuals. Furthermore, risks associated with gender-affirming hormonal therapy and potential complications of puberty suppression emphasize the importance of ongoing surveillance for these patients and the need of fertility preservation and family-building options for transgender individuals. This narrative review delves into the intricate landscape of hormone therapy for transgender individuals, shedding light on its impact on bone, cardiovascular, and overall health. It explores how hormone therapy affects bone maintenance and cardiovascular risk factors, outlining the complex interplay of testosterone and estrogen. It also underscores the necessity for further research, especially regarding the long-term effects of transgender hormones. This project emphasizes the critical role of healthcare providers, particularly obstetricians and gynecologists, in providing affirming care, calling for comprehensive understanding and integration of transgender treatments. This review will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of hormone therapy on reproductive health and overall well-being in transgender individuals. It will provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and transgender individuals themselves, informing decision-making regarding hormone therapy and fertility preservation options. Additionally, by identifying research gaps, this review will guide future studies to address the evolving healthcare needs of transgender individuals. This project represents a critical step toward addressing the complex healthcare needs of this population. By synthesizing existing knowledge and highlighting areas for further investigation, this review aims to improve the quality of care and support provided to transgender individuals, ultimately enhancing their reproductive health and overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthalia Moustakli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Orestis Tsonis
- Fertility Preservation Service, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SE1 9RT, UK
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Grannis C, Mattson WI, Leibowitz SF, Nahata L, Chen D, Strang JF, Thobe H, Indyk JA, Nelson EE. Expanding upon the relationship between gender-affirming hormone therapy, neural connectivity, mental health, and body image dissatisfaction. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 156:106319. [PMID: 37331310 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transgender/non-binary (TNB) youth are at increased risk for anxiety, depression, and suicidality compared to cisgender youth. Gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT, i.e., testosterone or estrogen) is a standard of care option for TNB youth, and we have recently shown that GAHT (testosterone) in transgender youth assigned a female sex at birth is associated with reductions in internalizing symptomatology. The current analysis explores: 1) whether these benefits are observed in both TNB youth assigned female at birth (TNBAFAB) and TNB youth assigned male at birth (TNBAMAB) and 2) the extent to which body image dissatisfaction and alteration in neural circuitry relate to internalizing symptoms. METHOD The current study is an expansion of a previous publication from our lab that explored the association between gender-affirming testosterone and internalizing symptomatology. While participants in our previous study consisted of 42 TNBAFAB youth, participants in the current study included adolescent TNBAFAB receiving GAHT (n = 21; GAHT+) and not receiving GAHT (n = 29; GAHT-) as well as adolescent GAHT+ TNBAMAB (n = 15) and GAHT- TNBAMAB (n = 17). Participants reported symptoms of trait and social anxiety, depression, suicidality in the past year, and body image dissatisfaction. Brain activation was measured during a face processing task designed to elicit amygdala activation during functional MRI. RESULTS GAHT+ TNBAFAB had significantly lower rates of social anxiety, depression, and suicidality compared to GAHT- TNBAFAB. While there were no significant relationships between estrogen and depression and anxiety symptoms, longer duration of estrogen was related to less suicidality. Both testosterone and estrogen administration were related to significantly lower rates of body image dissatisfaction compared to GAHT- youth. No significant differences emerged for BOLD response in the left or right amygdala during the face processing task, however, there was a significant main effect of GAHT on functional connectivity between the right amygdala and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, such that GAHT+ youth had stronger co-activation between the two regions during the task. Body image dissatisfaction, greater functional connectivity, their interaction effect, and age predicted depression symptomatology and body image dissatisfaction additionally predicted suicidality in the past year. CONCLUSION The current study suggests that GAHT is associated with fewer short-term internalizing symptoms in TNBAFAB than in TNBAMAB, although internalizing symptoms among TNBAMAB may diminish with longer durations of estrogen treatment. Controlling for age and sex assigned at birth, our findings indicate that less body image dissatisfaction and greater functional connectivity between the amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex were both predictors of fewer levels of internalizing symptoms following GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Grannis
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Whitney I Mattson
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Scott F Leibowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Leena Nahata
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Endocrinology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University Wexner College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Diane Chen
- Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, and Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John F Strang
- Gender Development Program and Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology, Children's National Research Institute at Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heather Thobe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Justin A Indyk
- Department of Endocrinology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Eric E Nelson
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Ohio State University Wexner College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
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Doan D, Sharma Y, Veneros DL, Caceres BA. Caring for Sexual and Gender Minority Adults with Cardiovascular Disease. Nurs Clin North Am 2023; 58:461-473. [PMID: 37536792 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2023.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
This article summarizes existing evidence on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and CVD diagnoses among sexual and gender minority adults and provides recommendations for providing nursing care to sexual and gender minority adults with CVD. More research is needed to develop evidence-based strategies to care for sexual and gender minority adults with CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Doan
- Center for Sexual and Gender Minority Health Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Yashika Sharma
- Center for Sexual and Gender Minority Health Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - David López Veneros
- Center for Sexual and Gender Minority Health Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Billy A Caceres
- Center for Sexual and Gender Minority Health Research, Columbia University School of Nursing, 560 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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Gupta P, Barrera E, Boskey ER, Kremen J, Roberts SA. Exploring the Impact of Legislation Aiming to Ban Gender-Affirming Care on Pediatric Endocrine Providers: A Mixed-Methods Analysis. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad111. [PMID: 37732157 PMCID: PMC10508250 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Access to gender-affirming medical care is associated with better mental health outcomes in transgender and gender diverse youth. In 2021 and 2022, legislation aiming to ban gender-affirming medical care for youth was proposed in 24 states. Objective This study aimed to (1) assess the impact of this legislation on pediatric providers based on legislative status of their state of practice and (2) identify the themes of concerns reported by them. Methods A mixed-methods study was conducted via an anonymous survey distributed to pediatric endocrinology providers. Survey responses were stratified based on US state of practice, with attention to whether legislation aiming to ban gender-affirming care had been considered. Data were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Results Of 223 respondents, 125 (56.0%) were currently providing gender-affirming medical care. A total of 103 (45.7%) respondents practiced in a state where legislation aiming to ban gender-affirming care had been proposed and/or passed between January 2021 to June 2022. Practicing in legislation-affected states was associated with negative experiences for providers including (1) institutional pressure that would limit the ability to provide care, (2) threats to personal safety, (3) concerns about legal action being taken against them, (4) concerns about their career, and (5) institutional concerns about engagement with media. Major qualitative themes emerging for providers in legislation-affected states included safety concerns and the impact of laws on medical practice. Conclusion This study suggests that legislation aiming to ban health care for transgender youth may decrease access to qualified providers in affected states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Ellis Barrera
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Boskey
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessica Kremen
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stephanie A Roberts
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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20
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Roy MK, Wilkerson RB, Alexander K, Nokoff NJ, Cree-Green M, D’Alessandro A. Longitudinal metabolic study of red blood cells from patients undergoing gender-affirming testosterone therapy. Blood Adv 2023; 7:4269-4277. [PMID: 36001490 PMCID: PMC10424140 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022008061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Kalani Roy
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Graduate School, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Rebecca Burgoyne Wilkerson
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Graduate School, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Keisha Alexander
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Graduate School, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Natalie J. Nokoff
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Melanie Cree-Green
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Angelo D’Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Graduate School, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
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Doyle DM, Lewis TOG, Barreto M. A systematic review of psychosocial functioning changes after gender-affirming hormone therapy among transgender people. Nat Hum Behav 2023; 7:1320-1331. [PMID: 37217739 PMCID: PMC10444622 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-023-01605-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review assessed the state and quality of evidence for effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy on psychosocial functioning. Forty-six relevant journal articles (six qualitative, 21 cross-sectional, 19 prospective cohort) were identified. Gender-affirming hormone therapy was consistently found to reduce depressive symptoms and psychological distress. Evidence for quality of life was inconsistent, with some trends suggesting improvements. There was some evidence of affective changes differing for those on masculinizing versus feminizing hormone therapy. Results for self-mastery effects were ambiguous, with some studies suggesting greater anger expression, particularly among those on masculinizing hormone therapy, but no increase in anger intensity. There were some trends toward positive change in interpersonal functioning. Overall, risk of bias was highly variable between studies. Small samples and lack of adjustment for key confounders limited causal inferences. More high-quality evidence for psychosocial effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy is vital for ensuring health equity for transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Matthew Doyle
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Tom O G Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Kim HH, Goetz TG, Grieve V, Keuroghlian AS. Psychopharmacological Considerations for Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2023; 31:183-194. [PMID: 37437250 PMCID: PMC10348476 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The field of transgender health has grown exponentially since the early 2010s. While this increased visibility has not been without controversy, there is growing acknowledgement of the needs of transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive (TNG) patients and the health disparities they experience compared to the cisgender population. There is also increased interest among clinicians and trainees in providing gender-affirming care in all medical specialties. This is particularly relevant in psychiatry as mental health disparities in TNG patients have been well-documented. TNG patients experience significant minority stress and higher rates of psychiatric illness, self-harm, suicidality, and psychiatric hospitalization compared to their cisgender peers. In this review, we will cover potential interactions and side effects relevant to psychiatric medication management for the three most common medication classes prescribed as part of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT): gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor agonists, estradiol, and testosterone. Although no studies directly examining the efficacy of psychiatric medications or their interactions with GAHT for TNG patients have been published yet, we have synthesized the existing literature from both cisgender and TNG patients to shed light on health care disparities seen in TNG patients. Since clinicians' lack of comfort and familiarity with gender-affirming care contributes significantly to these disparities, we hope this narrative review will help psychiatric prescribers provide TNG patients with the same quality of care that cisgender patients receive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Hee Kim
- From Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA (Drs. Kim and Keuroghlian); University of Pennsylvania Department of Psychiatry (Dr. Goetz); University of Pittsburgh Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics (Dr. Grieve)
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23
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Arrington-Sanders R, Connell NT, Coon D, Dowshen N, Goldman AL, Goldstein Z, Grimstad F, Javier NM, Kim E, Murphy M, Poteat T, Radix A, Schwartz A, St Amand C, Streed CG, Tangpricha V, Toribio M, Goldstein RH. Assessing and Addressing the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism Across the Spectrum of Gender Affirming Care: A Review. Endocr Pract 2023; 29:272-278. [PMID: 36539066 PMCID: PMC10081942 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Accumulating evidence demonstrates that gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) improves mental health outcomes in transgender persons. Data specific to the risks associated with GAHT for transgender persons continue to emerge, allowing for improvements in understanding, predicting, and mitigating adverse outcomes while informing discussion about desired effects. Of particular concern is the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in the context of both longitudinal GAHT and the perioperative setting. Combining what is known about the risk of VTE in cisgender individuals on hormone therapy (HT) with the evidence for transgender persons receiving HT allows for an informed approach to assess underlying risk and improve care in the transgender community. OBSERVATIONS Hormone formulation, dosing, route, and duration of therapy can impact thromboembolic risk, with transdermal estrogen formulations having the lowest risk. There are no existing risk scores for VTE that consider HT as a possible risk factor. Risk assessment for recurrent VTE and bleeding tendencies using current scores may be helpful when assessing individual risk. Gender affirming surgeries present unique perioperative concerns, and certain procedures include a high likelihood that patients will be on exogenous estrogens at the time of surgery, potentially increasing thromboembolic risk. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Withholding GAHT due to potential adverse events may cause negative impacts for individual patients. Providers should be knowledgeable about the management of HT in transgender individuals of all ages, as well as in the perioperative setting, to avoid periods in which transgender individuals are off GAHT. Treatment decisions for both anticoagulation and HT should be individualized and tailored to patients' overall goals and desired outcomes, given that the physical and mental health benefits of gender affirming care may outweigh the risk of VTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Arrington-Sanders
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nathan T Connell
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Devin Coon
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Departments of Plastic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nadia Dowshen
- Craig-Dalsimer Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anna L Goldman
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Zil Goldstein
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY; City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, New York, New York
| | - Frances Grimstad
- Division of Gynecology, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Noelle Marie Javier
- Associate Professor, Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Ellie Kim
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Martina Murphy
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Associate Professor of Social Medicine, Center for Health Equity Research, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, New York
| | - Aviva Schwartz
- North American Thrombosis Forum, Brookline, Massachusetts
| | - Colt St Amand
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas; Department of Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Carl G Streed
- Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA and the Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Mabel Toribio
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert H Goldstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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24
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Delays in gender affirming healthcare due to COVID-19 are mitigated by expansion of telemedicine. Am J Surg 2023; 225:367-373. [PMID: 36182596 PMCID: PMC9500094 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2022.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender-affirming healthcare is vital for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients, and during the pandemic, accessing healthcare became challenging. Hypothesizing that many had procedures postponed, we sought to characterize the impact of the pandemic on TGD patients. METHODS A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys and interviews; Duke patients were identified by ICD-10 codes, while non-Duke (national) patients were recruited through online social media. RESULTS All specialties increased telemedicine usage during the pandemic. Duke surgical patients reported a nearly three-fold increase in telemedicine access. COVID-19 symptoms were reported by 24% of Duke and 20% of national patients; barriers to urgent care included the fear of discrimination (27%). CONCLUSION Delays were experienced in all domains of care, mitigated in part by telemedicine. Nearly one-third of patients cite discrimination as a barrier to care. Though pandemic-related expansion of telemedicine may be a marker of success, significant barriers still complicate delivery of healthcare.
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25
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Toribio M, Cetlin M, Fulda ES, Chu SM, Gómez Tejeda Zañudo J, Poteat T, Donelan K, Zanni MV. Hormone Prescription and HIV Screening/Preventive Practices Among Clinicians Providing Care for Transgender Individuals. Transgend Health 2023; 8:64-73. [PMID: 36824383 PMCID: PMC9942173 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Through a survey-based approach, we sought to investigate regional differences in gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) prescribing practices, as well as HIV screening and prevention practices among clinicians providing care to transgender individuals. Methods Our survey was disseminated between December 2019 and January 2021 to clinicians who prescribe GAHT within New England (United States). Between-group differences in GAHT prescribing and HIV screening/prevention practices were evaluated by practice setting and subspecialty. Results Of the 20 survey respondents, 55% practiced in health care settings affiliated with an academic institution, 45% practiced in a community-based health care setting, and 30% were Endocrinologists. Clinicians in community-based health care settings reported more frequently prescribing oral 17β-estradiol (p=0.02) and spironolactone (p=0.007) for feminizing GAHT compared with clinicians in health care settings affiliated with an academic institution, who reported more frequently prescribing leuprolide (p=0.03). For masculinizing GAHT, clinicians from health care settings affiliated with an academic institution reported more frequently prescribing topical testosterone (p=0.03). There were no significant between-group differences in reported barriers to initiation or reasons for stopping GAHT. While non-Endocrinologists reported "often" or "always" offering HIV screening, most Endocrinologists reported "rarely" or "never" offering HIV screening and "rarely" or "never" offering pre-exposure or postexposure prophylaxis to their transgender patients. Conclusions Regional GAHT prescribing practices varied by setting. Additional research is needed to better understand whether these differences translate to differences in GAHT efficacy and side-effects. Further, HIV screening/prevention practices varied by subspecialty. Integrated GAHT and HIV screening/prevention across subspecialties could help reduce the disproportionate burden of HIV faced by the transgender community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Toribio
- Metabolism Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Madeline Cetlin
- Metabolism Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Evelynne S. Fulda
- Metabolism Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah M. Chu
- Metabolism Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jorge Gómez Tejeda Zañudo
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Karen Donelan
- Health Policy Research Center at the Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Markella V. Zanni
- Metabolism Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Bucher ML, Anderson FL, Lai Y, Dicent J, Miller GW, Zota AR. Exposomics as a tool to investigate differences in health and disease by sex and gender. EXPOSOME 2023; 3:osad003. [PMID: 37122372 PMCID: PMC10125831 DOI: 10.1093/exposome/osad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The health and disease of an individual is mediated by their genetics, a lifetime of environmental exposures, and interactions between the two. Genetic or biological sex, including chromosome composition and hormone expression, may influence both the types and frequency of environmental exposures an individual experiences, as well as the biological responses an individual has to those exposures. Gender identity, which can be associated with social behaviors such as expressions of self, may also mediate the types and frequency of exposures an individual experiences. Recent advances in exposome-level analysis have progressed our understanding of how environmental factors affect health outcomes; however, the relationship between environmental exposures and sex- and gender-specific health remains underexplored. The comprehensive, non-targeted, and unbiased nature of exposomic research provides a unique opportunity to systematically evaluate how environmental exposures interact with biological sex and gender identity to influence health. In this forward-looking narrative review, we provide examples of how biological sex and gender identity influence environmental exposures, discuss how environmental factors may interact with biological processes, and highlight how an intersectional approach to exposomics can provide critical insights for sex- and gender-specific health sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Faith L Anderson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yunjia Lai
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jocelyn Dicent
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gary W Miller
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ami R Zota
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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27
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Dong F, Ping P, Ma Y, Chen XF. Application of single-cell RNA sequencing on human testicular samples: a comprehensive review. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:2167-2197. [PMID: 37151874 PMCID: PMC10158017 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.82191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
So far there has been no comprehensive review using systematic literature search strategies to show the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in the human testis of the whole life cycle (from embryos to aging males). Here, we summarized the application of scRNA-seq analyses on various human testicular biological samples. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), focusing on English researches published after 2009. Articles related to GEO data-series were also retrieved in PubMed or BioRxiv. 81 full-length studies were finally included in the review. ScRNA-seq has been widely used on different human testicular samples with various library strategies, and new cell subtypes such as State 0 spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) and stage_a/b/c Sertoli cells (SC) were identified. For the development of normal testes, scRNA-seq-based evidence showed dynamic transcriptional changes of both germ cells and somatic cells from embryos to adults. And dysregulated metabolic signaling or hedgehog signaling were revealed by scRNA-seq in aged SC or Leydig cells (LC), respectively. For infertile males, scRNA-seq studies revealed profound changes of testes, such as the increased proportion of immature SC/LC of Klinefelter syndrome, the somatic immaturity and altered germline autophagy of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, and the repressed differentiation of SSC in trans-females receiving testosterone inhibition therapy. Besides, the re-analyzing of public scRNA-seq data made further discoveries such as the potential vulnerability of testicular SARS-CoV-2 infection, and both evolutionary conservatism and divergence among species. ScRNA-seq analyses would unveil mechanisms of testes' development and changes so as to help developing novel treatments for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Dr. Xiang-Feng Chen. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address: . Dr. Yi Ma. Address: 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, P. R. China, 200135. Telephone: +86-21-20284500; Fax: +86-21-58394262; Email address:
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28
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Iwamoto SJ, Defreyne J, Kaoutzanis C, Davies RD, Moreau KL, Rothman MS. Gender-affirming hormone therapy, mental health, and surgical considerations for aging transgender and gender diverse adults. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231166494. [PMID: 37113210 PMCID: PMC10126651 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231166494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As the transgender and gender diverse (TGD) population ages, more transfeminine and transmasculine individuals present to clinic to initiate or continue their gender-affirming care at older ages. Currently available guidelines on gender-affirming care are excellent resources for the provision of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT), primary care, surgery, and mental health care but are limited in their scope as to whether recommendations require tailoring to older TGD adults. Data that inform guideline-recommended management considerations, while informative and increasingly evidence-based, mainly come from studies of younger TGD populations. Whether results from these studies, and therefore recommendations, can or should be extrapolated to aging TGD adults remains to be determined. In this perspective review, we acknowledge the lack of data in older TGD adults and discuss considerations for evaluating cardiovascular disease, hormone-sensitive cancers, bone health and cognitive health, gender-affirming surgery, and mental health in the older TGD population on GAHT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justine Defreyne
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christodoulos Kaoutzanis
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Robert D. Davies
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- CUMedicine LGBTQ Mental Health Clinic, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora, CO, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kerrie L. Moreau
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Eastern Colorado Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Micol S. Rothman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- UCHealth Integrated Transgender Program – Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Das RK, Dusetzina SB. Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy Spending and Use in the USA, 2013-2019. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:260-262. [PMID: 35697969 PMCID: PMC9849620 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07693-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rishub K Das
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
| | - Stacie B Dusetzina
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, 1161 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
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30
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Berliere M, Coche M, Lacroix C, Riggi J, Coyette M, Coulie J, Galant C, Fellah L, Leconte I, Maiter D, Duhoux FP, François A. Effects of Hormones on Breast Development and Breast Cancer Risk in Transgender Women. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010245. [PMID: 36612241 PMCID: PMC9818520 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender women experience gender dysphoria due to a gender assignment at birth that is incongruent with their gender identity. Transgender people undergo different surgical procedures and receive sex steroids hormones to reduce psychological distress and to induce and maintain desired physical changes. These persons on feminizing hormones represent a unique population to study the hormonal effects on breast development, to evaluate the risk of breast cancer and perhaps to better understand the precise role played by different hormonal components. In MTF (male to female) patients, hormonal treatment usually consists of antiandrogens and estrogens. Exogenous hormones induce breast development with the formation of ducts and lobules and an increase in the deposition of fat. A search of the existing literature dedicated to hormone regimens for MTF patients, their impact on breast tissue (incidence and type of breast lesions) and breast cancer risk provided the available information for this review. The evaluation of breast cancer risk is currently complicated by the heterogeneity of administered treatments and a lack of long-term follow-up in the great majority of studies. Large studies with longer follow-up are required to better evaluate the breast cancer risk and to understand the precise mechanisms on breast development of each exogenous hormone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine Berliere
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Maximilienne Coche
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Camille Lacroix
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julia Riggi
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maude Coyette
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Plastic Surgery, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julien Coulie
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Plastic Surgery, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Galant
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Latifa Fellah
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Leconte
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dominique Maiter
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francois P. Duhoux
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Medical Oncology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aline François
- Breast Clinic, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Pathology, King Albert II Cancer Institute, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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31
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Hadley JB, Kelher MR, D’Alessandro A, Gamboni F, Hansen K, Coleman J, Jones K, Cohen M, Moore EE, Banerjee A, Silliman CC. A pilot study of the metabolic profiles of apheresis platelets modified by donor age and sex and in vitro short-term incubation with sex hormones. Transfusion 2022; 62:2596-2608. [PMID: 36309927 PMCID: PMC9837799 DOI: 10.1111/trf.17165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelets are part of innate immunity and comprise the cellular portion of hemostasis. Platelets express sex hormone receptors on their plasma membrane and sex hormones can alter their function in vitro. Little is known about how age and sex may affect platelet biology; thus, we hypothesized that platelets from males and females have different metabolomic profiles, which may be altered by age and in vitro treatment with sex hormones. METHODS Day 1 apheresis platelets were drawn from five 18-53-year-old, premenopausal younger females (YF), five ≥54-year-old, postmenopausal, older females (OF), five 18-44-year-old younger males (YM), and four ≥45-year-old older males (OM). Platelets were normalized to a standard concentration and metabolomics analyses were completed. Unsupervised statistical analyses and hierarchical clustering with principal component analyses were completed. RESULTS Platelets from OM had (1) elevated mono-, di- and tri-carboxylates, (2) increased levels of free fatty acids, acyl-carnitines, and free amino acids, and (3) increased purine breakdown and deamination products. In vitro incubation with sex hormones only affected platelets from OM donors with trends towards increased ATP and other high-energy purines and decreases in L-proline and other amino acids. CONCLUSION Platelets from OM's versus YF, OF, and YM have a different metabolome implying increased energy metabolism, more free fatty acids, acylcarnitines, and amino acids, and increased breakdown of purines and deamination products. However, only platelets from OM were affected by sex hormones in vitro. Platelets from OM are metabolically distinct, which may impart functional differences when transfused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie B. Hadley
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Marguerite R. Kelher
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA,Vitalant Research Institute, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Angelo D’Alessandro
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Fabia Gamboni
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kirk Hansen
- The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Julia Coleman
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kenneth Jones
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Oklahoma School of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Mitchell Cohen
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ernest E. Moore
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Anirban Banerjee
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Christopher C. Silliman
- The Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA,Vitalant Research Institute, Denver, Colorado, USA,The Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Gezer E, Piro B, Cantürk Z, Çetinarslan B, Sözen M, Selek A, Polat Işik A, Seal LJ. The Comparison of Gender Dysphoria, Body Image Satisfaction and Quality of Life Between Treatment-Naive Transgender Males With and Without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Transgend Health 2022; 7:514-520. [PMID: 36644121 PMCID: PMC9829140 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among trans men has been reported as higher than among the cisgender population, which varies between 14.4% and 58%. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the association of oligo-anovulation and/or features of hyperandrogenism with the scores on the Utrecht Gender Dysphoria Scale (UGDS), the Body Image Scale (BIS), and the Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) in treatment-naive trans men with PCOS seeking help for gender transition. The study sample consisted of trans men who were diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) between December 2019 and November 2020. To assess body dissatisfaction and psychological functioning, the UGDS, BIS, and SF-36 were administered to all transgender individuals as part of the routine assessment procedure. A total of 49 treatment-naive trans men were included in our study; 38.8% (n=19) of the participants were diagnosed with PCOS using the Rotterdam 2003 criteria. The scores of UGDS and BIS were significantly lower in the PCOS group compared with the non-PCOS group (p<0.001 and p=0.003, respectively). Among the eight parameters within SF-36, general health, emotional role, and vitality scores were significantly higher in the PCOS group (p=0.031, p=0.015, and p=0.006, respectively). Our study is the first study that demonstrates significantly lower GD, higher body image satisfaction and quality of life in trans men with PCOS compared with those without PCOS. Our findings are promising for larger prospective cohort studies to develop a consensus on the management of PCOS in trans men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Gezer
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Bejda Piro
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Cantürk
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Berrin Çetinarslan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Sözen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Alev Selek
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Aslıhan Polat Işik
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Leighton John Seal
- Department of Endocrinology, St George's Hospital Medical School, London, United Kingdom
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Valente PK, Paine EA, Mellman W, Rael CT, MacCrate C, Bockting WO. Positive patient-provider relationships among transgender and nonbinary individuals in New York City. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 24:247-262. [PMID: 37114109 PMCID: PMC10128430 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2136814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) individuals have diverse health needs and may face disproportionate barriers to healthcare, including developing positive patient-provider relationships. While there is mounting evidence of gender-based stigma and discrimination in healthcare, little is known about how TGNB individuals develop positive patient-provider relationships. Aims: To examine TGNB individuals' interactions with healthcare providers and identify main characteristics of positive patient-providers relationships. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 13 TGNB individuals in New York, NY. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed inductively for themes related to characteristics of positive and trusting relationships with healthcare providers. Results: Participants' mean age was 30 years (IQR = 13 years) and most participants were nonwhite (n = 12, 92%). Receiving peer referrals to specific clinics or providers helped many participants find providers perceived to be competent and created initial grounds for positive patient-provider relationships. Providers with whom participants had positive relationships commonly managed primary care and gender-affirming care and relied on a network of interdisciplinary providers for other specialized care. Providers who were positively evaluated were perceived to possess in-depth clinical knowledge on the issues they were responsible for managing, including gender-affirming interventions, particularly for TGNB patients who perceived themselves to be knowledgeable about TGNB-specific care. Provider and staff cultural competence and a TGNB-affirming clinic environment were also important, particularly early in the patient-provider relationship, and if combined with TGNB clinical competence. Discussion: Provider-focused training and education programs should combine components of TGNB clinical and cultural competence to facilitate development of positive relationships between TGNB patients and providers, thereby improving the health and wellbeing of TGNB people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo K. Valente
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Waterbury, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emily Allen Paine
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
| | - William Mellman
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christine T. Rael
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Caitlin MacCrate
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
| | - Walter O. Bockting
- Division of Gender, Sexuality, and Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute/Columbia Psychiatry, New York, New York, USA
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Abstract
Objectives As of 2016, 1.4 million people in the United States were identified as transgender. Transgender people face health disparities and may be at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The objective of this study was to examine the odds of CVD for those who report a transgender identity compared with cisgender. Methods We used logistic regression to examine whether transgender identity was associated with CVD after accounting for factors commonly associated with CVD. Data were obtained from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey for the years 2015 through 2019. Results Of the participants, 93.1% reported no CVD and 6.9% reported CVD. For participants with female sex recorded at birth, those identifying as transgender had 2.66 times higher odds of CVD (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.60-4.41) than those identifying as cisgender. For participants with male sex recorded at birth, the odds of CVD were not statistically significantly different for transgender identity compared with cisgender identity; however, those who were gender nonconforming had 2.21 times higher odds of CVD (95% CI: 1.04-4.70) compared with those with cisgender identity. Additional significant predictors of CVD were age, race, body mass index, alcohol consumption, exercise, and smoking status. Conclusion Participants who were female sex recorded at birth had statistically significant increased odds of CVD for those reporting transgender identity compared with cisgender identity. However, transgender identity did not change the odds of CVD compared with cisgender identity for participants who were male sex recorded at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Howerton
- Public Health Program, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jenine K. Harris
- Public Health Program, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Anderson D, Wijetunge H, Moore P, Provenzano D, Li N, Hasoon J, Viswanath O, Kaye AD, Urits I. Gender Dysphoria and Its Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatments. Health Psychol Res 2022; 10:38358. [PMID: 36168640 PMCID: PMC9501960 DOI: 10.52965/001c.38358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender dysphoria is defined by severe or persistent distress associated with an incongruence between one's gender identity and biological sex. It is estimated that 1.4 million Americans and 25 million people worldwide identify as transgender and that 0.6% of Americans experience gender dysphoria. The pathophysiology of gender dysphoria is multifactorial and incompletely understood. Genetics, androgen exposure, neuroanatomy, brain connectivity, history of trauma, parents with psychological disorders, and being raised by less than two parents are associated with gender dysphoria. Gender dysphoria most frequently presents in early teenage years but can present earlier or later. Anxiety and depression are the two most common comorbid diagnoses and may be the reason for presentation to medical care. Diagnosis is established through history and or validated questionnaires. Treatment includes psychosocial therapy, pharmacotherapy for underlying depression and/or anxiety, hormonal therapy, non-genital and/or genital feminization or masculinization operations. The frequency and severity of treatment related morbidity increases progressively as treatments go from conservative to more invasive. Gender dysphoria and its treatment is individualized and not completely understood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Himasa Wijetunge
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
| | - Peyton Moore
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center
| | - Daniel Provenzano
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
| | - Nathan Li
- Medical School, Medical College of Wisconsin
| | - Jamal Hasoon
- Anesthesiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Omar Viswanath
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
| | - Alan D Kaye
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
| | - Ivan Urits
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
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36
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Soled KRS, Dimant OE, Tanguay J, Mukerjee R, Poteat T. Interdisciplinary clinicians' attitudes, challenges, and success strategies in providing care to transgender people: a qualitative descriptive study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1134. [PMID: 36076288 PMCID: PMC9454229 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08517-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to clinicians competent in transgender health remains a significant barrier and contributor toward health inequity for transgender people. Studies on access and barriers to care have predominantly evaluated transgender patients' perceptions, but scant research has included the perspectives of clinicians. AIMS We conducted a qualitative study to explore how clinicians (meaning physicians and advanced practice providers, in this paper) in the United States: (1) attain and utilize information, (2) perceive barriers and facilitators, and (3) understood gaps in their professional training, in regard to practicing transgender health care. METHODS A Qualitative Descriptive approach guided our conventional content analysis of field notes and interviews with clinicians within a parent study that explored health care access among transgender adults. Transcripts were coded into meaning units that were iteratively abstracted into themes. Standard measures were performed to promote the trustworthiness of the analysis and reduce bias. RESULTS Participants (n = 13) consisted of physicians (n = 8), physician assistants (n = 3), and nurse practitioners (n = 2). The majority were women (n = 11), identified as White (n = 9), cisgender (n = 13), and ages ranged from 31 - 58 years. Five main themes were identified: (1) Knowledge Acquisition: Formal and Informal Pathways to Competency; (2) Perceived Challenges and Barriers: I didn't know what I was doing; (3) Power to Deny: Prescriptive Authority and Gatekeeping; (4) Stigma: This is really strange, and I can't really understand it; (5) Reflections: Strategies for Success, Rewards, and Personal Motivations. DISCUSSION Clinicians gained a sense of comfort and competence with mentorship, self-directed learning, clinical experience, and person-centered, harm-reduction approaches. Stigma, bias, and structural-level factors were barriers to providing care. This study offers a unique perspective of clinicians' motivations and strategies for providing gender-affirming care and elucidates how stigma impacts the delivery of gender-affirming care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodiak Ray Sung Soled
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA USA ,grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY USA
| | - Oscar E. Dimant
- grid.415191.90000 0000 9146 3393Rutgers-New Jersey, Medical School, Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, Newark, NJ USA
| | - Jona Tanguay
- grid.429506.c0000 0004 4670 6287Whitman-Walker Health, Washington, District of Columbia USA
| | - Ronica Mukerjee
- grid.21729.3f0000000419368729Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY USA
| | - Tonia Poteat
- grid.410711.20000 0001 1034 1720Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
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Coleman E, Radix AE, Bouman WP, Brown GR, de Vries ALC, Deutsch MB, Ettner R, Fraser L, Goodman M, Green J, Hancock AB, Johnson TW, Karasic DH, Knudson GA, Leibowitz SF, Meyer-Bahlburg HFL, Monstrey SJ, Motmans J, Nahata L, Nieder TO, Reisner SL, Richards C, Schechter LS, Tangpricha V, Tishelman AC, Van Trotsenburg MAA, Winter S, Ducheny K, Adams NJ, Adrián TM, Allen LR, Azul D, Bagga H, Başar K, Bathory DS, Belinky JJ, Berg DR, Berli JU, Bluebond-Langner RO, Bouman MB, Bowers ML, Brassard PJ, Byrne J, Capitán L, Cargill CJ, Carswell JM, Chang SC, Chelvakumar G, Corneil T, Dalke KB, De Cuypere G, de Vries E, Den Heijer M, Devor AH, Dhejne C, D'Marco A, Edmiston EK, Edwards-Leeper L, Ehrbar R, Ehrensaft D, Eisfeld J, Elaut E, Erickson-Schroth L, Feldman JL, Fisher AD, Garcia MM, Gijs L, Green SE, Hall BP, Hardy TLD, Irwig MS, Jacobs LA, Janssen AC, Johnson K, Klink DT, Kreukels BPC, Kuper LE, Kvach EJ, Malouf MA, Massey R, Mazur T, McLachlan C, Morrison SD, Mosser SW, Neira PM, Nygren U, Oates JM, Obedin-Maliver J, Pagkalos G, Patton J, Phanuphak N, Rachlin K, Reed T, Rider GN, Ristori J, Robbins-Cherry S, Roberts SA, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rosenthal SM, Sabir K, Safer JD, Scheim AI, Seal LJ, Sehoole TJ, Spencer K, St Amand C, Steensma TD, Strang JF, Taylor GB, Tilleman K, T'Sjoen GG, Vala LN, Van Mello NM, Veale JF, Vencill JA, Vincent B, Wesp LM, West MA, Arcelus J. Standards of Care for the Health of Transgender and Gender Diverse People, Version 8. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 23:S1-S259. [PMID: 36238954 PMCID: PMC9553112 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 536] [Impact Index Per Article: 268.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Transgender healthcare is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field. In the last decade, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number and visibility of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people seeking support and gender-affirming medical treatment in parallel with a significant rise in the scientific literature in this area. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is an international, multidisciplinary, professional association whose mission is to promote evidence-based care, education, research, public policy, and respect in transgender health. One of the main functions of WPATH is to promote the highest standards of health care for TGD people through the Standards of Care (SOC). The SOC was initially developed in 1979 and the last version (SOC-7) was published in 2012. In view of the increasing scientific evidence, WPATH commissioned a new version of the Standards of Care, the SOC-8. Aim: The overall goal of SOC-8 is to provide health care professionals (HCPs) with clinical guidance to assist TGD people in accessing safe and effective pathways to achieving lasting personal comfort with their gendered selves with the aim of optimizing their overall physical health, psychological well-being, and self-fulfillment. Methods: The SOC-8 is based on the best available science and expert professional consensus in transgender health. International professionals and stakeholders were selected to serve on the SOC-8 committee. Recommendation statements were developed based on data derived from independent systematic literature reviews, where available, background reviews and expert opinions. Grading of recommendations was based on the available evidence supporting interventions, a discussion of risks and harms, as well as the feasibility and acceptability within different contexts and country settings. Results: A total of 18 chapters were developed as part of the SOC-8. They contain recommendations for health care professionals who provide care and treatment for TGD people. Each of the recommendations is followed by explanatory text with relevant references. General areas related to transgender health are covered in the chapters Terminology, Global Applicability, Population Estimates, and Education. The chapters developed for the diverse population of TGD people include Assessment of Adults, Adolescents, Children, Nonbinary, Eunuchs, and Intersex Individuals, and people living in Institutional Environments. Finally, the chapters related to gender-affirming treatment are Hormone Therapy, Surgery and Postoperative Care, Voice and Communication, Primary Care, Reproductive Health, Sexual Health, and Mental Health. Conclusions: The SOC-8 guidelines are intended to be flexible to meet the diverse health care needs of TGD people globally. While adaptable, they offer standards for promoting optimal health care and guidance for the treatment of people experiencing gender incongruence. As in all previous versions of the SOC, the criteria set forth in this document for gender-affirming medical interventions are clinical guidelines; individual health care professionals and programs may modify these in consultation with the TGD person.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Coleman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A E Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - W P Bouman
- Nottingham Centre for Transgender Health, Nottingham, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - G R Brown
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
- James H. Quillen VAMC, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - A L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M B Deutsch
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Gender Affirming Health Program, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - R Ettner
- New Health Foundation Worldwide, Evanston, IL, USA
- Weiss Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - L Fraser
- Independent Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - M Goodman
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - J Green
- Independent Scholar, Vancouver, WA, USA
| | - A B Hancock
- The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - T W Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, California State University, Chico, CA, USA
| | - D H Karasic
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Independent Practice at dankarasic.com
| | - G A Knudson
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, Canada
| | - S F Leibowitz
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - H F L Meyer-Bahlburg
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - J Motmans
- Transgender Infopunt, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Centre for Research on Culture and Gender, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T O Nieder
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Interdisciplinary Transgender Health Care Center Hamburg, Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine and Forensic Psychiatry, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S L Reisner
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Richards
- Regents University London, UK
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - V Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipids, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - A C Tishelman
- Boston College, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - M A A Van Trotsenburg
- Bureau GenderPRO, Vienna, Austria
- University Hospital Lilienfeld-St. Pölten, St. Pölten, Austria
| | - S Winter
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - K Ducheny
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - N J Adams
- University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, Canada
- Transgender Professional Association for Transgender Health (TPATH)
| | - T M Adrián
- Asamblea Nacional de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
- Diverlex Diversidad e Igualdad a Través de la Ley, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - L R Allen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - D Azul
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia
| | - H Bagga
- Monash Health Gender Clinic, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Başar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - D S Bathory
- Independent Practice at Bathory International PLLC, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - J J Belinky
- Durand Hospital, Guemes Clinic and Urological Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D R Berg
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J U Berli
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - R O Bluebond-Langner
- NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
- Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - M-B Bouman
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M L Bowers
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mills-Peninsula Medical Center, Burlingame, CA, USA
| | - P J Brassard
- GrS Montreal, Complexe CMC, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Université de Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - J Byrne
- University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - L Capitán
- The Facialteam Group, Marbella International Hospital, Marbella, Spain
| | | | - J M Carswell
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S C Chang
- Independent Practice, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - G Chelvakumar
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - T Corneil
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K B Dalke
- Penn State Health, PA, USA
- Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - G De Cuypere
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - E de Vries
- Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M Den Heijer
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Devor
- University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - C Dhejne
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A D'Marco
- UCTRANS-United Caribbean Trans Network, Nassau, The Bahamas
- D M A R C O Organization, Nassau, The Bahamas
| | - E K Edmiston
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - L Edwards-Leeper
- Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
- Independent Practice, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - R Ehrbar
- Whitman Walker Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Independent Practice, Maryland, USA
| | - D Ehrensaft
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - J Eisfeld
- Transvisie, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - E Elaut
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Experimental and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - L Erickson-Schroth
- The Jed Foundation, New York, NY, USA
- Hetrick-Martin Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - J L Feldman
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - M M Garcia
- Department of Urology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Departments of Urology and Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - L Gijs
- Institute of Family and Sexuality Studies, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - B P Hall
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Adult Gender Medicine Clinic, Durham, NC, USA
| | - T L D Hardy
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M S Irwig
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - A C Janssen
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Johnson
- RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - D T Klink
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, ZNA Queen Paola Children's Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - B P C Kreukels
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L E Kuper
- Department of Psychiatry, Southwestern Medical Center, University of Texas, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - E J Kvach
- Denver Health, Denver, CO, USA
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M A Malouf
- Malouf Counseling and Consulting, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - R Massey
- WPATH Global Education Institute
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - T Mazur
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
- John R. Oishei Children's Hospital, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - C McLachlan
- Professional Association for Transgender Health, South Africa
- Gender DynamiX, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S D Morrison
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S W Mosser
- Gender Confirmation Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Saint Francis Memorial Hospital, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P M Neira
- Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Health Equity, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - U Nygren
- Division of Speech and Language Pathology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Speech and Language Pathology, Medical Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - J M Oates
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne Voice Analysis Centre, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - J Obedin-Maliver
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - G Pagkalos
- Independent PracticeThessaloniki, Greece
- Military Community Mental Health Center, 424 General Military Training Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - J Patton
- Talkspace, New York, NY, USA
- CytiPsychological LLC, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - N Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - K Rachlin
- Independent Practice, New York, NY, USA
| | - T Reed
- Gender Identity Research and Education Society, Leatherhead, UK
| | - G N Rider
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - S A Roberts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston's Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S M Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UCSF Child and Adolescent Gender Center
| | - K Sabir
- FtM Phoenix Group, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
| | - J D Safer
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mount Sinai Center for Transgender Medicine and Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - A I Scheim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - L J Seal
- Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - K Spencer
- National Center for Gender Spectrum Health, Institute for Sexual and Gender Health, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - C St Amand
- University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - T D Steensma
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, , Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Strang
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G B Taylor
- Atrium Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - K Tilleman
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - G G T'Sjoen
- Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Gent, Belgium
| | - L N Vala
- Independent Practice, Campbell, CA, USA
| | - N M Van Mello
- Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J F Veale
- School of Psychology, University of Waikato/Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato, Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, New Zealand/Aotearoa
| | - J A Vencill
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - B Vincent
- Trans Learning Partnership at https://spectra-london.org.uk/trans-learning-partnership, UK
| | - L M Wesp
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin MilwaukeeMilwaukee, WI, USA
- Health Connections Inc., Glendale, WI, USA
| | - M A West
- North Memorial Health Hospital, Robbinsdale, MN, USA
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - J Arcelus
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Beckie TM, Lengacher C, Rodriguez C, Pares-Avila J, Turner D, Sanchez M, Nair US. A framework for addressing health inequities in sexual and gender diverse populations by nurses. Nurs Outlook 2022; 70:651-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Kettelhut A, Bowman E, Gabriel J, Hand B, Liyanage NPM, Kulkarni M, Avila-Soto F, Lake JE, Funderburg NT. Estrogen May Enhance Toll-Like Receptor 4-Induced Inflammatory Pathways in People With HIV: Implications for Transgender Women on Hormone Therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:879600. [PMID: 35720418 PMCID: PMC9205606 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.879600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transgender women (TW) are at increased risk for both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Antiretroviral therapy-treated HIV has been associated with a two-fold increased risk of CVD, potentially due to dysregulated Toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced immune activation. Use of estrogens in feminizing hormone therapy (FHT) may enhance inflammatory responses and the risk of cardiovascular mortality in TW. Despite this, the immunomodulatory effects of estrogen use in TW with HIV have been inadequately explored. Methods As an in vitro model for FHT, cryopreserved PBMCs (cryoPBMCs) from HIV negative (HIV-), HIV+ ART-suppressed (HIV+SP), and HIV+ ART-unsuppressed (HIV+USP) cisgender men were cultured overnight in the presence of 17-β estradiol or 17-α ethinylestradiol with and without the TLR4 agonist LPS or the TLR8 agonist ssPolyU. Monocyte activation (CD69, HLA-DR, CD38) was assessed by flow cytometry. Cytokine levels (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) were measured in cell culture supernatants by Legendplex. Levels of phosphorylated TLR signaling molecules (JNK, MAPK p38) were assessed by Phosflow. Plasma levels of immune activation biomarkers (LPS-binding protein, monocyte activation markers sCD14 and sCD163, and inflammatory molecules IL-6 and TNF-α receptor I) were measured by ELISA. Results PBMCs from people with HIV (PWH) produced greater levels of inflammatory cytokines following exposure to LPS or ssPolyU compared to levels from cells of HIV- individuals. While estrogen exposure alone induced mild changes in immune activation, LPS-induced TLR4 activation was elevated with estrogen in cisgender men (CM) with HIV, increasing monocyte activation and inflammatory cytokine production (IL-6, TNF-α). Interestingly, testosterone inhibited LPS-induced cytokine production in CM regardless of HIV status. Plasma markers of immune activation and microbial translocation (e.g., sCD14, sCD163, LPS-binding protein) were generally higher in PWH compared to HIV- CM, and these markers were positively associated with in vitro responsiveness to estrogen and LPS in CM with HIV. Conclusions Our in vitro data suggest that estrogen exposure may enhance innate immune activation in PWH. Further examination is needed to fully understand the complex interactions of FHT, HIV, and CVD in TW, and determine optimal FHT regimens or supplementary treatments aimed at reducing excess immune activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaren Kettelhut
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Emily Bowman
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Janelle Gabriel
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Brittany Hand
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Namal P. M. Liyanage
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Manjusha Kulkarni
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Frances Avila-Soto
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jordan E. Lake
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nicholas T. Funderburg
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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40
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Puckett JA, Tornello S, Mustanski B, Newcomb ME. Gender Variations, Generational Effects, and Mental Health of Transgender People in Relation to Timing and Status of Gender Identity Milestones. PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER DIVERSITY 2022; 9:165-178. [PMID: 35983565 PMCID: PMC9380989 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people commonly report the following gender identity milestones: feeling different about their gender than expectations for their sex assigned at birth, identifying as TGD, living in their affirmed gender, and, for some, accessing gender-affirming medical care. We explored the average ages of reaching these milestones and variations across gender groups and generational cohorts. We also examined how gender groups, generational cohorts, and endorsement of reaching each of the milestones related to minority stress variables and mental health. This online study included 695 TGD individuals ages 16-73. Boomers+ and Generation X groups were more likely to identify as trans women compared to the younger generational cohorts, who were more varied in their identities. Trans women had later ages of starting to live in their affirmed gender and receiving gender affirming medical care compared to other gender groups. The Boomers+ cohort reported later ages for the milestones compared to other generational cohorts. And, finally, younger generational cohorts had higher levels of internalized stigma, anxiety, and depression, compared to the older cohorts. Gender congruence emerged as a consistent predictor of mental health in the full sample and within each generational cohort. There are important generational differences across identity milestones, minority stress, and mental health that need exploration in future longitudinal research. In addition, beyond the effects of milestone timing, reporting feelings of congruence with one's gender identity is an important consideration for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae A Puckett
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 316 Physics Rd., Rm 262, East Lansing, MI 48824
| | - Samantha Tornello
- Human Development & Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, 215 Health & Human Development Building, State College, PA 16801
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of Medical Social Sciences, Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60657
| | - Michael E Newcomb
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, 625 N Michigan Ave, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611
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41
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Bezuidenhout MC, Conradie-Smit M, Dave JA, de Vries E, Ross IL, Zemlin AE. Reference intervals for biochemical analytes in transgender individuals on hormone therapy. Ann Clin Biochem 2022; 59:183-192. [PMID: 35044249 DOI: 10.1177/00045632211066777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormone therapy in transgender individuals may impact processes that lead to changes in biochemical analytes, and therefore reference intervals. Currently, few reference interval studies are available for the transgender population. We determined biochemical reference intervals for transgender individuals receiving hormone therapy. METHODS Our retrospective, laboratory-based, observational study included healthy transgender males (N = 24) and transgender females (N = 84) on hormone therapy. Various biochemical reference intervals were established for each cohort and compared to their cisgender counterparts. RESULTS We detected significant differences in reference intervals for sodium, 139-142 mmol/L vs. 136-145 mmol/L when comparing transgender males (TM) with cisgender males (CM). The following significant changes in upper reference limits (URL) for TM versus CM were detected, ALP (URL: 96 U/L vs. 128 U/L), GGT (URL: 27 U/L vs. 67 U/L) and testosterone (URL: 46.7 nmol/L vs. 29.0 nmol/L), respectively. Moreover, when comparing transgender female (TF) to cisgender female (CF), significant differences in creatinine (URL: 117 μmol/L vs. 90 μmol/L), albumin (lower reference limit: 41 g/L, vs. 35 g/L), AST (URL: 50 U/L vs. 35 U/L), ALP (URL: 118 U/L vs. 98 U/L) and oestradiol (URL: 934 pmol/L vs. 213 pmol/L) were noted, respectively. Significantly higher LDL-C was observed for TM on hormone treatment, compared to baseline (2.9 mmol/L vs. 2.2 mmol/L, p <0.01). CONCLUSIONS Biochemical results for TM and TF receiving hormone therapy can be evaluated against our transgender-specific reference intervals for some analytes, while others can be compared to their identified gender reference intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morné C Bezuidenhout
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Stellenbosch University and National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marli Conradie-Smit
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, 121470Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joel A Dave
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, 63726University of Cape Town, Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elma de Vries
- Division of Family Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, 63726University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ian L Ross
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, 121470Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Annalise E Zemlin
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Stellenbosch University and National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Stoehr JR, Hamidian Jahromi A, Hunter EL, Schechter LS. Telemedicine for Gender-Affirming Medical and Surgical Care: A Systematic Review and Call-to-Action. Transgend Health 2022; 7:117-126. [PMID: 36644513 PMCID: PMC9829135 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Telemedicine has facilitated the delivery of affordable and accessible health care. However, little has been discussed about its use in gender-affirming care (GAC). Telemedicine has the potential to overcome many barriers encountered by transgender individuals such as limited geographic access to care and financial constraints, which have both been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine may also enhance opportunities for training in gender-affirming surgery. A systematic review of the literature on telehealth and GAC was performed. Identified uses of telehealth included: an electronic teleconsultation service, a virtual peer health consultation service, and an open online course on LGBT+ rights and health care for health care providers and laypeople. As the medical and health care communities adjust to the new reality of health care, efforts should be made to effectively incorporate telemedicine into GAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Rose Stoehr
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alireza Hamidian Jahromi
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,The Center for Gender Confirmation Surgery, Weiss Memorial Hospital, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ezra Leigh Hunter
- The Center for Gender Confirmation Surgery, Weiss Memorial Hospital, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Loren S. Schechter
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,The Center for Gender Confirmation Surgery, Weiss Memorial Hospital, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Address correspondence to: Loren S. Schechter, MD, The Center for Gender Confirmation Surgery, Weiss Memorial Hospital, The University of Illinois at Chicago, 4646 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60640, USA,
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44
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Baba T, Endo T, Ikeda U, Ikeda H, Ichihara K, Masumori N, Saito T. Self-administration of gender-affirming hormones and supratherapeutic dosing are relatively common in Japanese transgender women. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:2208-2213. [PMID: 35304797 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study was performed to determine the proportion of transgender women with self-adjusted hormone administration and excess dosing. METHODS The medical records of 87 transgender women who visited our gender clinic from 2010 through 2019 were reviewed. The complete blood count and serum concentrations of D-dimer, gonadotropins, and sex steroids were compared between transgender women who were self-administering gender-affirming hormones and women not using such hormones. RESULTS Fifty-eight of 87 (66.7%) transgender women had contravened the guideline and self-adjusted their hormone administration. The hormonal data of one woman with hypopituitarism were eliminated from the analyses. The serum gonadotropin and testosterone levels were significantly lower in the self-administration group than in the hormone-naïve group. Gonadotropin levels below the lower limit of normal were found in 32/86 (37.2%) transgender women. The testosterone levels in six transgender women were not analyzed because these women had undergone sex reassignment surgery before visiting our hospital. Testosterone levels below the lower limit of normal men were found in 36/80 (45.0%) transgender women. Unexpectedly, 29/36 (80.6%) transgender women who were classified as having suppressed serum testosterone levels had testosterone levels of <0.6 ng/mL, which corresponds to the levels in cisgender women. The white blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration were significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSION Self-initiated hormonal treatments seem to affect the serum concentrations of gonadotropin and sex steroids and the complete blood count. The prevalence of transgender women with self-adjusted use of gender-affirming hormones is high, and an excess dose of hormones occasionally occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Baba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Endo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Utako Ikeda
- Department of Gynecology, Tonan Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | | | - Koji Ichihara
- Department of Urology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoya Masumori
- Department of Urology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
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45
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Austin A, Papciak R, Lovins L. Gender euphoria: a grounded theory exploration of experiencing gender affirmation. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2022.2049632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Austin
- Barry University School of Social Work, Miami Shores, FL, USA
| | - Ryan Papciak
- Barry University School of Social Work, Miami Shores, FL, USA
| | - Lindsay Lovins
- Barry University School of Social Work, Miami Shores, FL, USA
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Fisher AD, Senofonte G, Cocchetti C, Guercio G, Lingiardi V, Meriggiola MC, Mosconi M, Motta G, Ristori J, Speranza AM, Pierdominici M, Maggi M, Corona G, Lombardo F. SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE position statement of gender affirming hormonal treatment in transgender and non-binary people. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:657-673. [PMID: 34677807 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01694-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender Incongruence (GI) is a marked and persistent incongruence between an individual's experienced and the assigned gender at birth. In the recent years, there has been a considerable evolution and change in attitude as regards to gender nonconforming people. METHODS According to the Italian Society of Gender, Identity and Health (SIGIS), the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) and the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE) rules, a team of experts on the topic has been nominated by a SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board on the basis of their recognized clinical and research expertise in the field, and coordinated by a senior author, has prepared this Position statement. Later on, the present manuscript has been submitted to the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation for the normal process of international peer reviewing after a first internal revision process made by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE Guideline Board. RESULTS In the present document by the SIGIS-SIAMS-SIE group, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning, gender affirming hormonal treatment, safety concerns, emerging issues in transgender healthcare (sexual health, fertility issues, elderly trans people), and an Italian law overview aimed to improve gender non-conforming people care. CONCLUSION In this Position statement, we propose experts opinions concerning the psychological functioning of transgender people, the gender-affirming hormonal treatment (full/partial masculinization in assigned female at birth trans people, full/partial feminization and de-masculinization in assigned male at birth trans people), the emerging issues in transgender health care aimed to improve patient care. We have also included an overview of Italian law about gender affirming surgery and registry rectification.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Senofonte
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - C Cocchetti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Guercio
- Studio Legale Avv. Giovanni Guercio, Via Antonio Mordini, 14, 00195, Rome, Italy
| | - V Lingiardi
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M C Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mosconi
- Gender Identity Development Service, Hospital S. Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - J Ristori
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Florence University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - A M Speranza
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - M Pierdominici
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology, Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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47
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Shepherd R, Bretherton I, Pang K, Mansell T, Czajko A, Kim B, Vlahos A, Zajac JD, Saffery R, Cheung A, Novakovic B. Gender-affirming hormone therapy induces specific DNA methylation changes in blood. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:24. [PMID: 35177097 PMCID: PMC8851870 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01236-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background DNA methylation is an epigenetic mark that is influenced by underlying genetic profile, environment, and ageing. In addition to X-linked DNA methylation, sex-specific methylation patterns are widespread across autosomal chromosomes and can be present from birth or arise over time. In individuals where gender identity and sex assigned at birth are markedly incongruent, as in the case of transgender people, feminization or masculinization may be sought through gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT). GAHT is a cornerstone of transgender care, yet no studies to date have investigated its effect on genome-wide methylation. We profiled genome-wide DNA methylation in blood of transgender women (n = 13) and transgender men (n = 13) before and during GAHT (6 months and 12 months into feminizing or masculinizing hormone therapy). Results We identified several thousand differentially methylated CpG sites (DMPs) (Δβ ≥ 0.02, unadjusted p value < 0.05) and several differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in both people undergoing feminizing and masculinizing GAHT, the vast majority of which were progressive changes over time. X chromosome and sex-specific autosomal DNA methylation patterns established in early development are largely refractory to change in association with GAHT, with only 3% affected (Δβ ≥ 0.02, unadjusted p value < 0.05). The small number of sex-specific DMPs that were affected by GAHT were those that become sex-specific during the lifetime, known as sex-and-age DMPs, including DMRs in PRR4 and VMP1 genes. The GAHT-induced changes at these sex-associated probes consistently demonstrated a shift towards the methylation signature of the GAHT-naïve opposite sex, and we observed enrichment of previously reported adolescence-associated methylation changes. Conclusion We provide evidence for GAHT inducing a unique blood methylation signature in transgender people. This study advances our understanding of the complex interplay between sex hormones, sex chromosomes, and DNA methylation in the context of immunity. We highlight the need to broaden the field of ‘sex-specific’ immunity beyond cisgender males and cisgender females, as transgender people on GAHT exhibit a unique molecular profile. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13148-022-01236-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Shepherd
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ingrid Bretherton
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Ken Pang
- Brain and Mitochondrial Research, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Adolescent Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Toby Mansell
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna Czajko
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Bowon Kim
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Amanda Vlahos
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ada Cheung
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Boris Novakovic
- Molecular Immunity, Infection and Immunity Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia. .,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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Pallotti F, Senofonte G, Konstantinidou F, Di Chiano S, Faja F, Rizzo F, Cargnelutti F, Krausz C, Paoli D, Lenzi A, Stuppia L, Gatta V, Lombardo F. Epigenetic Effects of Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment: A Pilot Study of the ESR2 Promoter’s Methylation in AFAB People. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020459. [PMID: 35203670 PMCID: PMC8962414 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Virilization of gender-incongruent subjects to whom were assigned the female gender at birth (AFAB) is achieved through testosterone administration. Inter-individual differences in the timing and acquisition of phenotypic characteristics, even if the same hormone preparations and regimens are used, are frequently observed. Polymorphisms of sex hormone receptors and methylation of their gene promoters, as well of several imprinted genes as H19, may underlie the differential response to treatment. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the possible relationship between the CpG methylation profile of the estrogen receptor 2 gene (ESR2) and H19 promoters and their influence on phenotype modifications in a cohort of AFAB people at baseline (T0) and after 6 mo (T6) and 12 mo (T12) of testosterone therapy (testosterone enanthate, 250 mg i.m. every 28 d). A total of 13 AFAB subjects (mean age 29.3 ± 12.6) were recruited. The percentage of methylation of the ESR2 promoter significantly increased at T6 (adj. p = 0.001) and T12 (adj. p = 0.05), while no difference was detected for H19 (p = 0.237). Methylation levels were not associated with androgen receptor (AR)/estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) polymorphisms nor hormone levels at baseline and after six months of treatment. On the other hand, total testosterone level and patient age resulted in being significantly associated with ESR2 methylation after twelve months of treatment. Finally, the difference in ESR2 promoter methylation between T6 and baseline was significantly associated with the number of CA repeats of the ERβ receptor, adjusted vs. all considered variables (R2 = 0.62, adj. R2 = 0.35). No associations were found with CAG repeats of the AR, age, and estradiol and testosterone levels. Despite the small sample size, we can hypothesize that treatment with exogenous testosterone can modify the ESR2 methylation pattern. Our data also indicated that epigenetic changes may be regulated, suggesting that the modulation of estrogen signaling is relevant shortly after the beginning of the treatment up to T6, with no further significant modification at T12. Furthermore, estrogen receptor methylation appears to be associated with the age of the subjects and exogenous testosterone administration, representing a marker of androgenic treatment. Nonetheless, it will be necessary to increase the number of subjects to evaluate how epigenetic regulation might play a relevant role in the modulation of phenotypical changes after testosterone treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Giulia Senofonte
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Fani Konstantinidou
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.); (L.S.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Chiano
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Fabiana Faja
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Flavio Rizzo
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Francesco Cargnelutti
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.); (L.S.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (F.K.); (L.S.)
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology—Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “Sapienza”, 00161 Rome, Italy; (F.P.); (G.S.); (S.D.C.); (F.F.); (F.R.); (F.C.); (D.P.); (A.L.); (F.L.)
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49
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Sullivan A, Kane A, Valentic G, Rensel M. Recommendations to Address the Unique Clinical and Psychological Needs of Transgender Persons Living With Multiple Sclerosis. Int J MS Care 2022; 24:35-40. [PMID: 35261570 PMCID: PMC8883816 DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073.2021-066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People living with multiple sclerosis (MS) face challenges coping with chronic illnesses, and transgender (TGD) persons living with MS may experience additional unique challenges and barriers to care. Medical biases toward TGD people are widely reported, and best practices in TGD MS care have not been identified. METHODS A case report of a TGD person living with MS is reviewed that helped to identify and inform us regarding the unique aspects of their clinical and psychological care needs. We conducted a systematic review of the literature according to the standard methods in PubMed. The literature was reviewed and summarized for relevant topics related to the unique care needs of TGD persons living with MS, and proposed care recommendations were created. RESULTS We used the aforementioned case to identify and inform the special care needs and subsequently describe proposed recommendations to achieve inclusive comprehensive care of TGD persons with MS. The importance of providing an inclusive environment, comprehensive care, mental health screening, domestic violence screening, and case coordination are highlighted with the goal of providing best practice recommendations for the comprehensive inclusive care of TGD persons living with MS. CONCLUSIONS The lack of published guidance on the care of TGD persons living with MS and our informative case have led to the proposed recommendations for the care of TGD persons living with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Sullivan
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (AS, AK), Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Alexa Kane
- From the Department of Psychiatry and Psychology (AS, AK), Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gianna Valentic
- Department of Psychology, Miami University, Oxford, OH, USA (GV)
| | - Mary Rensel
- Department of Neurology (MR), Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis Treatment and Research, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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50
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Burgund ED. Task-domain and hemisphere-asymmetry effects in cisgender and transmale individuals. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260542. [PMID: 34874973 PMCID: PMC8651105 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present research examined the extent to which transmale individuals’ functional brain organization resembles that of their assigned sex or gender identity. Cisgender-female, cisgender-male, and transmale participants, who were assigned female sex but did not have a female gender identity, were compared in terms of effects that have been observed in cisgender individuals: task-domain effects, in which males perform better than females on spatial tasks and females perform better than males on verbal tasks; and hemisphere-asymmetry effects, in which males show larger differences between the left and right hemispheres than females. In addition, the present research measured participants’ intelligence in order to control for potential moderating effects. Participants performed spatial (mental rotation) and verbal (lexical decision) tasks presented to each hemisphere using a divided-visual field paradigm, and then completed an intelligence assessment. In the mental-rotation task, cismale and transmale participants performed better than cisfemale participants, however this group difference was explained by intelligence scores, with higher scores predicting better performance. In the lexical-decision task, cismale and transmale participants exhibited a greater left-hemisphere advantage than cisfemales, and this difference was not affected by intelligence scores. Taken together, results do not support task-domain effects when intelligence is accounted for; however, they do demonstrate a hemisphere-asymmetry effect in the verbal domain that is moderated by gender identity and not assigned sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Darcy Burgund
- Department of Psychology, Macalester College, Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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