Abstract 65: Effects of gender affirming hormone therapy on metabolic health and body composition in gender dysphoria

Abstract

Background: Gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) may impact metabolic health and body composition in individuals with gender dysphoria. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the effects of GAHT on metabolic health (HOMA2-IR and lipid parameters) and body composition [BIA (Bioelectrical impedance analysis)] in transgender individuals. They were divided into 4 groups: Group 1 (n=38) and Group 3 (n=12) consisted of treatment naïve transwomen and transmen while group 2 (n=7) and group 4 (n=22) consisted of transwomen and transmen on treatment for at least 6 months, respectively. Results: The groups 1 and 4 showed significant differences in FBG (fasting blood glucose), whole-body and subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle percentages; (p<0.005) (cisgender setting). The visceral, subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle percentages were also found to be different (p<0.01) (transgender setting). When groups 2 and 3 were compared, differences between TG, VLDL, subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle percentages (cisgender setting) (p<0.05) were significant. Conclusions: Transmen on GAHT were found to have lower fasting glucose, skeletal muscle mass and higher whole-body and subcutaneous fat as compared to natal men. Transwomen on GAHT were found to have higher TG, VLDLC, skeletal muscle mass and lower subcutaneous fat compared to natal women.