2024/04/12 by Kailynn J. Yang, Canaan Kerr, Mia V. Rumps +1 · 1 voice
Medicine · Psychology · #Knee injuries and reconstruction techniques #LGBTQ Health, Identity, and Policy #Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes
paper · doi:10.1080/00913847.2024.2342230
openalex publication_date 2024/04/12 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/15
OBJECTIVE: Participation in athletics is essential for the overall well-being of transgender athletes and should be included as part of gender-affirming care. Surveys show physicians and athletic trainers want to provide appropriate care for transgender athletes but lack the proper knowledge and training to do so. Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) is part of gender-affirming care, yet the effects of GAHT on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health of transgender athletes is not well-understood. The purpose of this review was to discuss important musculoskeletal and cardiovascular considerations unique to transgender athletes and improve physician understanding in caring for transgender athletes. METHODS: A representative selection of literature on the effects of GAHT on cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health was included in this review. RESULTS: Estrogen therapy may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and stroke, and decrease blood pressure levels among transgender women, while studies on lipid profile are inconsistent among both transgender men and women. Transgender women receiving GAHT may also be at greater risk for bone fracture and ligamentous injuries. CONCLUSION: Exercise is essential for the well-being of transgender individuals and special considerations regarding the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health of transgender athletes should be incorporated into standard medical education. Educational programs for transgender patients and their support team should focus on preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of adverse musculoskeletal and cardiovascular events. The PPE is an invaluable tool available to physicians to monitor the health and safety of transgender athletes and should be regularly updated as research on the health of transgender individuals continues to grow. Longitudinal and prospective studies should examine the effects of GAHT on the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health of transgender athletes. Lastly, health care providers play an important role in the advancement of gender-neutral policies.