With the increasing recognition of the healthcare obstacles faced by transgender individuals, there is a critical requirement for extensive research on the safety and effectiveness of gender-affirming hormone therapy for transgender men. A recent study has delved into the long-term effects and safety of testosterone therapy for transgender men, shedding light on the positive results of both low and high-dose testosterone treatments. This research offers valuable information for healthcare providers and empowers transgender individuals to make well-informed decisions about their treatment options.
Transgender individuals often face unique challenges in aligning their physical bodies wi rnrnGender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is a crucial method for transgender men to align their physical appearance with their true gender identity. This therapy is sought out by transgender individuals to alleviate gender dysphoria and make their bodies consistent with their gender identity. Testosterone therapy, in particular, can lead to masculinizing effects such as increased muscle mass, cessation of menstruation, and deepening of the voice. However, there is a lack of comprehensive information available on this topic.
Extensive research on the long-term effects and safety of testosterone therapy presents significant challenges in clinical decision-making and highlights the ongoing stigma surrounding transgender healthcare. To address this urgent need, a study led by Assistant Professor Yusuke Tominaga along with Dr. Tomoko Kobayashi and Dr. Motoo Araki from the Department of Urology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan delves into understanding the long-term physical effects and safety profile of testosterone therapy for transgender men, providing insight into important aspects of hormone administration.
The impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on body composition was the focus of a recent study published in Andrology on April 2, 2024. Dr. Tominaga, leading the research team, noted the lack of a standardized regimen for testosterone dosage and administration and sought to understand how hormone dosages are adjusted to align with typical male testosterone levels in the bloodstream.
The study analyzed data from transgender men who began GAHT between May 2000 and December 2021, meticulously recording physical findings, blood test results, and menstrual cessation rates. The goal was to gain a better understanding of the impact of GAHT on body composition.The study compared the effects of testosterone on changes in body composition and laboratory parameters, dividing participants into low-dose and high-dose groups based on their dosage. The results showed that both low-dose and high-dose regimens had positive outcomes, with no significant differences in menstrual cessation rates up to 12 months. Over time, participants experienced a decrease in body fat percentage and an increase in lean body mass, indicating the desired effects of testosterone therapy. Additionally, the high-dose group had greater gains in lean body mass.In the first year of treatment, there was a significant increase in body mass, indicating a possible approach for individuals looking to see quicker changes in their body composition. It is important to note that the study did not find any evidence of long-term side effects that are dependent on the dosage, such as polycythemia or dyslipidemia. This provides reassurance to both healthcare providers and transgender individuals about the safety of testosterone therapy.
Dr. Tominaga emphasizes the importance of their findings, stating, “Our study offers valuable evidence on the long-term impact of testosterone therapy, providing essential insights for healthcare providers who are involved in transgender healthcare. By clarifying the safety and efficacy of testosterone therapy, our research can help to guide clinical decision-making.”The goal of hormone therapy is to address uncertainties in transgender healthcare and give people the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their treatment. This research aims to provide more comprehensive and evidence-based care by shedding light on the long-term effects and safety of testosterone therapy for transgender men.
