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Sánchez Amador L, Becerra Fernández A, Aguilar Vilas MV, Rodríguez Torres R, Alonso Rodríguez MC. Body composition and risk for sarcopenia in transgender women. Nutrition 2024; 123:112398. [PMID: 38521048 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2024.112398] [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] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Body composition and strength of cisgender (cis) individuals are well established. However, those for transgender women (trans women) undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy remain unclear. This study aimed to detect possible body composition and strength variations related to sarcopenia. METHODS This was a cross-sectional comparative study of 37 trans women, 34 cis men, and 34 cis women. Body composition was measured in all individuals by bioelectrical impedance analysis; prehensile strength by dynamometry was studied in trans women. RESULTS In this study, trans women had higher body mass index values than cis individuals (P < 0.01). Fat mass was 41% higher for trans women than cis men. Muscle mass (MM) was lower in trans women than cis men (-10%), and higher than cis women (24%). Bone mass was lower in trans women than cis men and higher in cis women (P < 0.01). Trans women's prehensile strengths were 25.26 kg for the right hand and 24.8 kg for the left. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass was 23.63 kg, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass index was 8.14 kg. CONCLUSION Trans women undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy show a tendency to adapt body compartments to those of cis women with increased fat mass and reduced muscle mass. Prehensile strength in trans women was close to the cutoff points for sarcopenia risk. Nutrition, physical activity, strength, and body composition are important to avoid the possible risk for sarcopenia. More studies along these lines are necessary, especially in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sánchez Amador
- Food, Nutrition and Public Health Strategies Research Group, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Antonio Becerra Fernández
- Food, Nutrition and Public Health Strategies Research Group, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Victorina Aguilar Vilas
- Food, Nutrition and Public Health Strategies Research Group, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Rodríguez Torres
- Department of Surgery, Medical and Social Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcala, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Nokoff NJ, Bothwell S, Rice JD, Cree MG, Kelsey MM, Moreau KL, Zeitler P, Nadeau KJ. Insulin sensitivity, body composition and bone mineral density after testosterone treatment in transgender youth with and without prior GnRH agonist therapy. J Clin Transl Endocrinol 2024; 36:100356. [PMID: 38948245 PMCID: PMC11214195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcte.2024.100356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background 1.8% of youth identify as transgender; a growing proportion are transgender male (female sex, male gender identity). Many receive gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) therapy to suppress endogenous puberty and/or will start testosterone to induce secondary sex characteristics that align with gender identity. Objectives To determine the effects of 12 months of testosterone on cardiometabolic health among transgender youth, including insulin sensitivity, body composition, and bone mineral density and whether changes in outcomes differ based on prior GnRHa treatment. Methods Participants (n = 19, baseline age 15.0 ± 1.0 years) were examined prior to and 12 months after testosterone therapy in a longitudinal observational study. Fasted morning blood draw, a 2-hour 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test, body composition and bone mineral density (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Insulin sensitivity was estimated by HOMA-IR and Matsuda index. Changes were compared with mixed linear regression models evaluating time (baseline, 12 months), group (GnRHa treatment yes/no), and their interaction. Results In the entire cohort, fasted insulin decreased (median [25,75 %ile]: -3 [-5, 0] mIU/L, p = 0.044) and 2-hour glucose increased (mean ± standard deviation): +18.5 ± 28.9 mg/dL, p = 0.013 from baseline after 12 months of testosterone therapy. There were no significant changes in HOMA-IR (p = 0.062) or Matsuda index (p = 0.096), nor by GnRHa status. Absolute (+6.2 [4.7, 7.5] kg, p = 0.016) and percent fat-free mass increased (+7.3 [5.4, 9.1] %, p = 0.003) and percent fat mass declined (-7.4 [-9.3, 5.3]%, p = 0.005) for the entire cohort. There were time*group interactions for absolute (p = 0.0007) and percent fat-free mass (p = 0.033). There were time*group interactions for bone mineral content (p = 0.006). Conclusions Twelve months of testosterone in transgender adolescents resulted in changes in body composition and bone mineral density, with baseline differences between the +/-GnRHa group and convergence after 12 months. There were no changes in insulin sensitivity over time or between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J. Nokoff
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, USA
| | - Samantha Bothwell
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - John D. Rice
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- University of Michigan, Department of Biostatistics, USA
| | - Melanie G. Cree
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, USA
| | - Megan M. Kelsey
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, USA
| | - Kerrie L. Moreau
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, USA
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Medicine, USA
| | - Philip Zeitler
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kristen J. Nadeau
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Pediatrics, 13123 E 16 Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, USA
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Ong C, Monita M, Liu M. Gender-affirming hormone therapy and cardiovascular health in transgender adults. Climacteric 2024; 27:227-235. [PMID: 38597210 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2024.2310518] [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] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
A growing number of people identify as transgender and gender non-binary in the USA and worldwide. Concomitantly, an increasing number of patients are receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) to achieve gender congruence. GAHT has far-ranging effects on clinical and subclinical markers of cardiovascular risk. Transgender patients also appear to be at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases compared to their cisgender peers and the impact of gender-affirming therapy on cardiovascular health is unclear. Studies on the effect of GAHT on cardiovascular outcomes are confounded by differences in GAHT regimens and methodological challenges in a diverse and historically hard-to-reach population. Current cardiovascular guidelines do not incorporate gender identity and hormone status into risk stratification and clinical decision-making. In this review, we provide an overview on the cardiometabolic impact and clinical considerations of GAHT for cardiovascular risk in transgender patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ong
- Division of Cardiology, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monique Monita
- Department of Medicine, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Minghao Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health, New York, NY, USA
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Adel F, Walsh CD, Bretzman J, Sang P, Lara-Breitinger K, Mahowald M, Maheshwari A, Scott CG, Lee AT, Davidge-Pitts CJ, Pellikka PA, Mankad R. Transgender Women Exhibit a Distinct Stress Echocardiography Profile Compared With Age-Matched Cisgender Counterparts: The Mayo Clinic Women's Heart Clinic Experience. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2024:S0894-7317(24)00226-8. [PMID: 38754746 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2024.05.004] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress echocardiographic (SE) testing is an important modality in cardiovascular risk stratification and obstructive coronary artery disease assessment. Binary sex-based parameters are classically used for the interpretation of these studies, even among transgender women (TGW). Coronary artery disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Yet, it remains unclear whether TGW exhibit a distinct stress testing profile from their cisgender counterparts. METHODS Using a matched case-control study design, the authors compared the echocardiographic stress testing profiles of TGW (n = 43) with those of matched cisgender men (CGM; n = 84) and cisgender women (CGW; n = 86) at a single center. Relevant data, including demographics, comorbidities, and cardiac testing data, were manually extracted from the patients' charts. RESULTS The prevalence of hypertension and dyslipidemia was similar between TGW and CGW and lower than that of CGM (P = .003 and P = .009, respectively). The majority of comorbidities and laboratory values were similar. On average, TGW had higher heart rates than CGM (P = .002) and had lower blood pressures than CGM and CGW (P < .05). TGW's double product and metabolic equivalents were similar to those among CGW and lower than those of CGM (P = .016 and P = .018, respectively). On echocardiography, left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters among TGW were similar to those of CGW but lower than those of CGM (P = .023 and P = .018, respectively). Measures of systolic and diastolic function, except for exercise mitral valve E/e' ratio, which was lower in TGW than CGW (P = .029), were largely similar among the three groups. There was no difference in the wall motion score index, and therefore, no difference in the percentage of positive SE test results. CONCLUSIONS This study shows, for the first time, that TGW have a SE profile that is distinct from that of their cisgender counterparts. Larger, multicenter, prospective studies are warranted to further characterize the SE profile of TGW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Adel
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Connor D Walsh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - John Bretzman
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Philip Sang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Madeline Mahowald
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida
| | | | - Christopher G Scott
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Alexander T Lee
- Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Caroline J Davidge-Pitts
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Rekha Mankad
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
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Lundberg TR, Tucker R, McGawley K, Williams AG, Millet GP, Sandbakk Ø, Howatson G, Brown GA, Carlson LA, Chantler S, Chen MA, Heffernan SM, Heron N, Kirk C, Murphy MH, Pollock N, Pringle J, Richardson A, Santos-Concejero J, Stebbings GK, Christiansen AV, Phillips SM, Devine C, Jones C, Pike J, Hilton EN. The International Olympic Committee framework on fairness, inclusion and nondiscrimination on the basis of gender identity and sex variations does not protect fairness for female athletes. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14581. [PMID: 38511417 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14581] [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] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently published a framework on fairness, inclusion, and nondiscrimination on the basis of gender identity and sex variations. Although we appreciate the IOC's recognition of the role of sports science and medicine in policy development, we disagree with the assertion that the IOC framework is consistent with existing scientific and medical evidence and question its recommendations for implementation. Testosterone exposure during male development results in physical differences between male and female bodies; this process underpins male athletic advantage in muscle mass, strength and power, and endurance and aerobic capacity. The IOC's "no presumption of advantage" principle disregards this reality. Studies show that transgender women (male-born individuals who identify as women) with suppressed testosterone retain muscle mass, strength, and other physical advantages compared to females; male performance advantage cannot be eliminated with testosterone suppression. The IOC's concept of "meaningful competition" is flawed because fairness of category does not hinge on closely matched performances. The female category ensures fair competition for female athletes by excluding male advantages. Case-by-case testing for transgender women may lead to stigmatization and cannot be robustly managed in practice. We argue that eligibility criteria for female competition must consider male development rather than relying on current testosterone levels. Female athletes should be recognized as the key stakeholders in the consultation and decision-making processes. We urge the IOC to reevaluate the recommendations of their Framework to include a comprehensive understanding of the biological advantages of male development to ensure fairness and safety in female sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommy R Lundberg
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ross Tucker
- Department of Sport Science, Institute of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Kerry McGawley
- Department of Health Sciences, Swedish Winter Sports Research Centre, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
| | - Alun G Williams
- Manchester Metropolitan Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Øyvind Sandbakk
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Water Research Group, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Gregory A Brown
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Kearney, Nebraska, USA
| | | | - Sarah Chantler
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Mark A Chen
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Shane M Heffernan
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Neil Heron
- Centre for Public Health, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme, UK
| | - Christopher Kirk
- Sport and Physical Activity Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Marie H Murphy
- Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Moray House School of Education and Sport, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Exercise Medicine, Physical Activity and Health, School of Sport, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Noel Pollock
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jamie Pringle
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Andrew Richardson
- School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Law, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Jordan Santos-Concejero
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Georgina K Stebbings
- Manchester Metropolitan Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Stuart M Phillips
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Carwyn Jones
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jon Pike
- Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Emma N Hilton
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Vélez C, Newman KL, Paul S, Berli JU, Tangpricha V, Targownik LE. Approaching Digestive Health Care in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Communities. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:369-375.e2. [PMID: 38395524 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Vélez
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kira L Newman
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sonali Paul
- Section of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jens U Berli
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Laura E Targownik
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Vélez C, Newman KL, Paul S, Berli JU, Tangpricha V, Targownik LE. Approaching Digestive Health Care in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Communities. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 22:441-447.e2. [PMID: 38395527 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Vélez
- Division of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kira L Newman
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sonali Paul
- Section of Gastroenterology Hepatology, and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jens U Berli
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Vin Tangpricha
- Division of Endocrinology Metabolism, and Lipids, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Laura E Targownik
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Cheung AS, Zwickl S, Miller K, Nolan BJ, Wong AFQ, Jones P, Eynon N. The Impact of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on Physical Performance. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e455-e465. [PMID: 37437247 PMCID: PMC10795902 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad414] [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: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The inclusion of transgender people in elite sport has been a topic of debate. This narrative review examines the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on physical performance, muscle strength, and markers of endurance. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION MEDLINE and Embase were searched using terms to define the population (transgender), intervention (GAHT), and physical performance outcomes. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Existing literature comprises cross-sectional or small uncontrolled longitudinal studies of short duration. In nonathletic trans men starting testosterone therapy, within 1 year, muscle mass and strength increased and, by 3 years, physical performance (push-ups, sit-ups, run time) improved to the level of cisgender men. In nonathletic trans women, feminizing hormone therapy increased fat mass by approximately 30% and decreased muscle mass by approximately 5% after 12 months, and steadily declined beyond 3 years. While absolute lean mass remains higher in trans women, relative percentage lean mass and fat mass (and muscle strength corrected for lean mass), hemoglobin, and VO2 peak corrected for weight was no different to cisgender women. After 2 years of GAHT, no advantage was observed for physical performance measured by running time or in trans women. By 4 years, there was no advantage in sit-ups. While push-up performance declined in trans women, a statistical advantage remained relative to cisgender women. CONCLUSION Limited evidence suggests that physical performance of nonathletic trans people who have undergone GAHT for at least 2 years approaches that of cisgender controls. Further controlled longitudinal research is needed in trans athletes and nonathletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada S Cheung
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg 3084, Australia
| | - Sav Zwickl
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | | | - Brendan J Nolan
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg 3084, Australia
| | - Alex Fang Qi Wong
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3084, Australia
| | - Patrice Jones
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Footscray 3011, Australia
| | - Nir Eynon
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Footscray 3011, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
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Lake JE, Miao H, Bowman ER, Clark JL, Hyatt AN, Kettelhut A, Lama JR, Reisner SL, Mayer KH, Perez-Brumer A, Funderburg N. Gender-affirming hormone therapy decreases d-dimer but worsens insulin sensitivity in transgender women. HIV Med 2023; 24:1144-1149. [PMID: 37386803 PMCID: PMC10755063 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13522] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Gender-affirming hormonal therapies (GAHT) and HIV increase cardiovascular risk for transgender women (TW), yet there is a paucity of data quantifying cardiometabolic changes following GAHT initiation, particularly among TW with HIV. METHODS The Féminas study enrolled TW from October 2016 to March 2017 in Lima, Peru. Participants reported sexual activity that was high risk for HIV acquisition or transmission. All were tested for HIV/ sexually transmitted infection and were given access to GAHT (oestradiol valerate and spironolactone), HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or antiretroviral therapy (ART) for 12 months. Biomarker measurement was done on stored serum, whereas fasting glucose and lipids were measured in real time. RESULTS In all, 170 TW (32 with HIV, 138 without HIV) had median age 27 years and 70% prior GAHT use. At baseline, PCSK9, sCD14, sCD163, IL-6, sTNFRI/II, CRP and EN-RAGE levels were significantly higher in TW with HIV than in TW without HIV. High-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol were lower and insulin and glucose parameters were similar. All TW with HIV started ART, but only five achieved virological suppression at any time. No TW without HIV initiated PrEP. Over 6 months, all participants initiated GAHT and had worsening insulin, glucose and HOMA-IR. Large d-dimer decreases also occurred. Similar changes occurred in TW with and without HIV. CONCLUSIONS In this unique cohort of TW, GAHT decreased d-dimer but worsened insulin sensitivity. Because PrEP uptake and ART adherence were very low, observed effects are primarily attributed to GAHT use. Further study is needed to better understand cardiometabolic changes in TW by HIV serostatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan E. Lake
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin St. MSB 2.112, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hongyu Miao
- Florida State University, 600 W College Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Emily R. Bowman
- The Ohio State University, 453 West 10 Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jesse L. Clark
- University of California, Los Angeles, 405 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles 90095, CA, USA
| | - Ana N. Hyatt
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin St. MSB 2.112, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Aaren Kettelhut
- The Ohio State University, 453 West 10 Ave, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Javier R. Lama
- Asociación Civil Impacta Salud y Educación, Av. Almte. Miguel Grau 1010, Lima 15063, Peru
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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10
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Chen P, Simonetto DA, Paul S, Patel A. Health disparities experienced by sexual and gender minority individuals living with or at risk of chronic liver disease. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2023; 22:152-156. [PMID: 37908866 PMCID: PMC10615390 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Chen
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Douglas A. Simonetto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sonali Paul
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Center for Liver Diseases, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arpan Patel
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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11
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Oktaba M, Briggs P, Reed T. Trials of the 'tranopause'. Post Reprod Health 2023; 29:178-182. [PMID: 37632166 DOI: 10.1177/20533691231198635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Oktaba
- Consultant Gynaecologist, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paula Briggs
- Consultant in Sexual & Reproductive Health, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Thomas Reed
- Final Year Medical Student, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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12
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Raths F, Karimzadeh M, Ing N, Martinez A, Yang Y, Qu Y, Lee TY, Mulligan B, Devkota S, Tilley WT, Hickey TE, Wang B, Giuliano AE, Bose S, Goodarzi H, Ray EC, Cui X, Knott SR. The molecular consequences of androgen activity in the human breast. CELL GENOMICS 2023; 3:100272. [PMID: 36950379 PMCID: PMC10025454 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2023.100272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen and progesterone have been extensively studied in the mammary gland, but the molecular effects of androgen remain largely unexplored. Transgender men are recorded as female at birth but identify as male and may undergo gender-affirming androgen therapy to align their physical characteristics and gender identity. Here we perform single-cell-resolution transcriptome, chromatin, and spatial profiling of breast tissues from transgender men following androgen therapy. We find canonical androgen receptor gene targets are upregulated in cells expressing the androgen receptor and that paracrine signaling likely drives sex-relevant androgenic effects in other cell types. We also observe involution of the epithelium and a spatial reconfiguration of immune, fibroblast, and vascular cells, and identify a gene regulatory network associated with androgen-induced fat loss. This work elucidates the molecular consequences of androgen activity in the human breast at single-cell resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Raths
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mehran Karimzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Vector Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Ing
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Andrew Martinez
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yoona Yang
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tian-Yu Lee
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brianna Mulligan
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Suzanne Devkota
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Wayne T. Tilley
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Theresa E. Hickey
- Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Bo Wang
- Vector Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Shikha Bose
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hani Goodarzi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Edward C. Ray
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Transgender Surgery and Health Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xiaojiang Cui
- Department of Surgery, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Simon R.V. Knott
- Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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13
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De Jesus AN, Henry BA. The role of oestrogen in determining sexual dimorphism in energy balance. J Physiol 2023; 601:435-449. [PMID: 36117117 PMCID: PMC10092637 DOI: 10.1113/jp279501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Energy balance is determined by caloric intake and the rate at which energy is expended, with the latter comprising resting energy expenditure, physical activity and adaptive thermogenesis. The regulation of both energy intake and expenditure exhibits clear sexual dimorphism, with young women being relatively protected against weight gain and the development of cardiometabolic diseases. Preclinical studies have indicated that females are more sensitive to the satiety effects of leptin and insulin compared to males. Furthermore, females have greater thermogenic activity than males, whereas resting energy expenditure is generally higher in males than females. In addition to this, in post-menopausal women, the decline in sex steroid concentration, particularly in oestrogen, is associated with a shift in the distribution of adipose tissue and overall increased propensity to gain weight. Oestrogens are known to regulate energy balance and weight homeostasis via effects on both food intake and energy expenditure. Indeed, 17β-oestradiol treatment increases melanocortin signalling in the hypothalamus to cause satiety. Furthermore, oestrogenic action at the ventromedial hypothalamus has been linked with increased energy expenditure in female mice. We propose that oestrogen action on energy balance is multi-faceted and is fundamental to determining sexual dimorphism in weight control. Furthermore, evidence suggests that the decline in oestrogen levels leads to increased risk of weight gain and development of cardiometabolic disease in women across the menopausal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Nicole De Jesus
- Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Program, Biomedicine, Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Belinda A Henry
- Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Program, Biomedicine, Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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14
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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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15
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Digestive Health in Sexual and Gender Minority Populations. Am J Gastroenterol 2022; 117:865-875. [PMID: 35537864 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
It has been over 50 years since the Stonewall Inn Riots in June 1969, a seminal event for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and other sexual and gender-diverse minorities (LGBTQI+, or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and everyone else) rights movement. However, sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals still face discrimination and harassment due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. As such, the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities has identified SGM communities as a "health disparity population." Broadly, there are higher rates of sexually transmitted infections, substance use and abuse, mental health conditions, obesity and eating disorders, certain cancers (breast, cervical, and anorectal), and cardiovascular disease in SGM communities. Transgender patients, especially those of color, are more likely to be uninsured, experience discrimination, and be denied health care than cisgender patients. In addition, SGM individuals have twice the risk of lifetime exposure to emotional, physical, and sexual trauma compared with heterosexuals. It is expected all these factors would negatively affect digestive health as well. This review summarizes the effects of social determinants of health and discrimination on health care access, highlights important digestive diseases to consider in the SGM population, and offers solutions to improve and prioritize the health of these communities. We aim to draw attention to SGM-specific issues that affect gastrointestinal health and spur research that is desperately lacking.
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16
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Jones PR, Voisin S, Nolan BJ, Landen S, Jacques M, Newell B, Zwickl S, Cook T, Wong A, Ginger A, Palmer A, Garnham A, Alvarez-Romero J, Mohandas N, Seale K, Cheung A, Eynon N. Uncovering the effects of gender affirming hormone therapy on skeletal muscle and epigenetics: protocol for a prospective matched cohort study in transgender individuals (the GAME study). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060869. [PMID: 35545400 PMCID: PMC9096568 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is increasingly used by transgender individuals and leads to shifts in sex hormone levels. Skeletal muscle is highly responsive to hormone activity, with limited data on the effects of GAHT on different human tissues. Here, we present the protocol for the GAME study (the effects of Gender Affirming hormone therapy on skeletal Muscle training and Epigenetics), which aims to uncover the effects of GAHT on skeletal muscle 'omic' profiles (methylomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and markers of skeletal muscle health and fitness. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is a prospective age-matched cohort study in transgender adults commencing GAHT (n=80) and age-matched individuals not commencing GAHT (n=80), conducted at Austin Health and Victoria University in Victoria, Australia. Assessments will take place prior to beginning GAHT and 6 and 12 months into therapies in adults commencing GAHT. Age-matched individuals will be assessed at the same time points. Assessments will be divided over three examination days, involving (1) aerobic fitness tests, (2) muscle strength assessments and (3) collection of blood and muscle samples, as well as body composition measurements. Standardised diets, fitness watches and questionnaires will be used to control for key confounders in analyses. Primary outcomes are changes in aerobic fitness and muscle strength, as well as changes in skeletal muscle DNA methylation and gene expression profiles. Secondary outcomes include changes in skeletal muscle characteristics, proteomics, body composition and blood markers. Linear mixed models will be used to assess changes in outcomes, while accounting for repeated measures within participants and adjusting for known confounders. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The Austin Health Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) and Victoria University HREC granted approval for this study (HREC/77146/Austin-2021). Findings from this project will be published in open-access, peer-reviewed journals and presented to scientific and public audiences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12621001415897; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice R Jones
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Voisin
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan J Nolan
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shanie Landen
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Macsue Jacques
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Beau Newell
- Pride in Sport, ACON Health, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sav Zwickl
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Teddy Cook
- Pride in Sport, ACON Health, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alex Wong
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ariel Ginger
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Palmer
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Garnham
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Namitha Mohandas
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten Seale
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ada Cheung
- Trans Health Research Group, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nir Eynon
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, Victoria, Australia
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17
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D'hoore L, T'Sjoen G. Gender-affirming hormone therapy: An updated literature review with an eye on the future. J Intern Med 2022; 291:574-592. [PMID: 34982475 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In line with increasing numbers of transgender (trans) and gender nonbinary people requesting hormone treatment, the body of available research is expanding. More clinical research groups are presenting data, and the numbers of participants in these studies are rising. Many previous review papers have focused on all available data, as these were scarce, but a more recent literature review is timely. Hormonal regimens have changed over time, and older data may be less relevant for today's practice. In recent literature, we have found that even though mental health problems are more prevalent in trans people compared to cisgender people, less psychological difficulties occur, and life satisfaction increases with gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) for those who feel this is a necessity. With GAHT, body composition and contours change towards the affirmed sex. Studies in bone health are reassuring, but special attention is needed for adolescent and adult trans women, aiming at adequate dosage of hormonal supplementation and stimulating therapy compliance. Existing epidemiological data suggest that the use of (certain) estrogens in trans women induces an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, the reason that lifestyle management can be an integral part of trans health care. The observed cancer risk in trans people does not exceed the known cancer-risk differences between men and women. Now it is time to integrate the mostly reassuring data, to leave the overly cautious approach behind, to not copy the same research questions repeatedly, and to focus on longer follow-up data with larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens D'hoore
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy T'Sjoen
- Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Center for Sexology and Gender, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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18
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Patel N, Blumenthal J, Dubé MP, Hood A, Bolan R, Morris S. Method of Calculating Renal Function Estimates Could Inappropriately Exclude Transgender Patients Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy from Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Eligibility. LGBT Health 2022; 9:199-206. [PMID: 35196473 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0219] [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: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Despite the importance of reliable renal function estimation among the growing transgender population, research describing the variability of existing equations is scarce. Study objectives were to (1) quantify the range of renal function estimates that would be observed if different gender coefficients are used in the estimating equations, (2) compare estimates of renal function (creatinine clearance [CLCR] or estimated glomerular filtration rate [GFR]) between users and nonusers of gender-affirming therapies, and (3) quantify the proportion of subjects who would be deemed ineligible for tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) based on the gender coefficient used. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed among transgender PrEP users enrolled in a multicenter observational study between June 2017 and October 2021. The primary outcome was estimated kidney function, defined using calculated CLCR or GFR before initiating TDF/FTC for PrEP based on the three most commonly used estimating equations. Results: A total of 258 participants were evaluated. Median differences in renal function ranged from 13 to 25 mL/min based on which gender coefficient and equation was used. Regardless of the method used to compute renal function, there were significant differences between users and nonusers of gender-affirming therapy. There were 17 (6.6%) participants where at least one of the methods would potentially render them ineligible to receive TDF/FTC for PrEP. Conclusions: Renal function estimates vary considerably with different estimating equations in the transgender population and are modified by use of gender-affirming therapy. These variations could result in exclusion from drug therapies such as TDF/FTC for PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimish Patel
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Michael P Dubé
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Allison Hood
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Robert Bolan
- Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sheldon Morris
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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19
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Pirtea P, Ayoubi JM, Desmedt S, T’Sjoen G. Ovarian, breast, and metabolic changes induced by androgen treatment in transgender men. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:936-942. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.07.1206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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20
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Balcerek MI, Nolan BJ, Brownhill A, Wong P, Locke P, Zajac JD, Cheung AS. Feminizing Hormone Therapy Prescription Patterns and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Aging Transgender Individuals in Australia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:667403. [PMID: 34326812 PMCID: PMC8313995 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.667403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The safety and efficacy of feminizing hormone therapy in aging transgender (trans) individuals is unclear. Current recommendations suggest transdermal estradiol beyond the age of 45 years, especially if cardiometabolic risk factors are present. OBJECTIVE To evaluate feminizing hormone therapy regimens and cardiovascular risk factors in aging trans individuals. DESIGN Retrospective cross-sectional analysis. SETTING Primary care and endocrine specialist clinic in Melbourne, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Trans individuals on feminizing therapy for ≥6 months. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES Feminizing hormone regimens and serum estradiol concentrations by age group: (a) ≥45 years, (b) <45 years, and prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals ≥45 years. RESULTS 296 individuals were stratified by age group: ≥45 years (n=55) and <45 years (n=241). There was no difference in median estradiol concentration between groups (328 nmol/L vs. 300 nmol/L, p=0.22). However, there was a higher proportion of individuals ≥45 years treated with transdermal estradiol (31% vs. 8%, p<0.00001). Of those treated with oral estradiol, the median dose was lower in the ≥45 years group (4mg vs. 6mg, p=0.01). The most prevalent cardiometabolic risk factor in the ≥45 years group was hypertension (29%), followed by current smoking (24%), obesity (20%), dyslipidaemia (16%) and diabetes (9%). CONCLUSIONS A greater proportion of trans individuals ≥45 years of age were treated with transdermal estradiol. Of those who received oral estradiol, the median dose was lower. This is important given the high prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in this age group, however cardiovascular risk management guidelines in this demographic are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew I. Balcerek
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Brendan J. Nolan
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brendan J. Nolan,
| | - Adam Brownhill
- Equinox Gender Diverse Clinic, Thorne Harbour Health, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Peggy Wong
- Equinox Gender Diverse Clinic, Thorne Harbour Health, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Locke
- Equinox Gender Diverse Clinic, Thorne Harbour Health, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D. Zajac
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Ada S. Cheung
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
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