Sex hormone therapy could cause heart issues in transgender people

A new study highlights changes in body composition and heart health risks in transgender individuals undergoing long-term hormone therapy.

Daphne Clarance

Sex hormone therapy can cause changes in body composition and heart health

Transgender men can experience rise in abdominal fat

Transgender women can show more modest changes

A new study has found taking sex hormone therapy for a long time can cause changes in body composition and increase the risk of heart problems in transgender individuals.

Research from Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet, published in the Journal of Internal Medicine, provides crucial insights into the health effects of testosterone and estrogen treatments, particularly in transgender men.

The study tracked 33 adults, 17 transgender men receiving testosterone therapy and 16 transgender women on estrogen, over six years.

The findings indicate that transgender men experienced a 21% increase in muscle mass within the first year, but also saw a significant 70% rise in abdominal fat over six years. They also developed higher liver fat levels and increased “bad” LDL cholesterol, elevating their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers used MRI scans and blood tests to measure changes in muscle mass, fat distribution, and metabolic risk factors at intervals before treatment, after one year, and after five to six years.

“In transgender men, these changes highlight the need for long-term health monitoring to mitigate cardiovascular risks,” said Dr. Tommy Lundberg, a researcher at Karolinska Institutet, in a statement.

Transgender women, on the other hand, showed more modest changes. Over five years, their muscle volume declined by 7%, though their overall fat volume increased.

Unlike transgender men, they accumulated less abdominal fat, and their muscle strength remained largely stable.

The research highlighted the importance of understanding the broader health implications of gender-affirming hormone therapy. “Long-term studies like ours are essential to address the potential health challenges faced by transgender individuals,” Lundberg added.

Beyond physical health, the study contributes to setting realistic expectations for those seeking masculinising or feminising effects through hormone therapy.

Researchers now plan to analyse tissue samples collected during the study to further explore how hormone therapy impacts gene expression and fat storage mechanisms.

These findings underline the necessity for personalised healthcare approaches and ongoing support for transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy to ensure their overall well-being.

Courtesy : India Today

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