Cancer Screening for Transgender and Gender Diverse Patients

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge base for sex-trait related cancer risks and screening guidelines as applied in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) populations with an emphasis on the potential impact of gender-affirming hormonal and surgical therapies. Additionally, this review will address access to screening services and patient-friendly adaptations to screening approaches for this population.Recent FindingsWhile breast cancer incidence is higher among transfeminine persons relative to genotypic males, it still remains significantly lower than that of genotypic females. As chest masculinization surgery performed in transmasculine persons may leave behind breast tissue, there is still a cancer risk. Mammography may not be feasible in a contoured chest and alternative approaches should be considered. Endometrial and ovarian cancers do not appear to have increased incidence in transmasculine persons who receive testosterone. Gender-affirming hormone therapy may be protective in prostate cancer risk in transfeminine persons. Lastly, prevalent societal constraints and outright discrimination of TGD persons in health care settings may limit patients from seeking necessary screening examinations. Some may opt out of screening because of emotional or physical discomfort associated with incongruence between screened anatomy and gender identity.SummaryOverall, the incidence of sex steroid –influenced cancers among TGD perso...
Source: Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports - Category: OBGYN Source Type: research