To evaluate the cardiovascular effects of long-term gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) initiated during adolescence on heart function and related risk factors in transgender individuals, specifically focusing on those who began treatment in their teenage years.
Key Findings:
Most cardiovascular parameters were within normal ranges; normal systolic function observed.
Only one trans man exhibited grade 2 diastolic dysfunction.
Significant reduction in aortic distensibility and strain compared to normal values, with increased aortic stiffness index in both groups.
In trans men, reduced aortic distensibility was associated with increased systolic blood pressure.
Interpretation:
Long-term GAHT initiated during adolescence does not appear to cause significant cardiac complications regarding function or hypertrophy, but does affect aortic elasticity, which may have important clinical implications.
Limitations:
Small sample size, particularly for trans women, limits generalizability and may affect the robustness of the findings.
Cross-sectional design does not establish causality.
Conclusion:
While GAHT does not significantly impact cardiac function or hypertrophy, alterations in aortic elasticity warrant further investigation to understand their long-term clinical significance.
