Cross-sex hormone therapy and transgender people’s health: an approach to metabolic impact, cardiovascular disease incidence and lgtbq+ dietary guidelines

Abstract

[eng] Some important differences in health outcomes of women and men are not just due to biological causes but are partly explained by the influence that gender-related factors have on their choices and actions. Transgender individuals who seek a full transition to the gender they identify with may undergo cross-sex hormone therapy (CSHT). The administration of sex hormones must proceed with caution due to its metabolic implications. Also, cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors should be precisely screened throughout the process. In this review, little significant metabolic alterations were found either in transgender women or transgender men. CVD incidence was reported higher in transgender women populations. Overall, CSHT was reported safe. Reviewed dietary guidelines came up insufficient to fully address specific dietetic and nutritional requirements of the lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and queer (LGTBQ+) community. Dietitian-Nutritionists and the rest of health providers and researchers must broaden their knowledge and awareness on dealing with the health care management of the whole LGTBQ+ community.