look news india
Hormone therapy is a gender-affirming medical treatment that helps transgender people adapt their bodies to their true gender. A study has found that long-term sex hormone therapy in transgender individuals can cause significant changes in body composition and may put transgender men at risk for heart disease.
From research published in the Journal of Internal Medicine Long-term use of hormone therapy has been shown to cause major changes in fat mass, muscle mass, and strength over time. Sometimes it is dangerous for both men and women.
purpose of the study
The study, conducted by Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, included 17 transgender men and 16 transgender women. These individuals were given hormonal drugs such as testosterone and estrogen. The researchers examined body composition, blood tests, blood pressure and vascular stiffness using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
effect of hormone therapy
Researchers found that muscle volume in transgender men who received testosterone treatment increased an average of 21 percent over six years. Additionally, his belly fat increased by 70 percent. In addition, they also had excess fat accumulation in their livers and increased levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. This research makes it clear that the long-term effects of hormone therapy can cause heart disease and other health problems in transgender men.
Impact on transgender women
Not many changes were seen in the bodies of transgender women taking estrogen therapy. The research found that these women lost an average of 7 percent in muscle volume after five years of estrogen treatment, while there was no change in muscle strength. However, these women’s total fat content increased, but abdominal fat decreased.
expert opinion
“It is extremely important to continue monitoring the long-term health effects of hormone therapy in transgender individuals to prevent heart disease and other health problems,” said study lead researcher Tommy Lundberg.