Understanding the role of sex hormones in cancer for the transgender community

Trends Cancer. 2022 Apr;8(4):273-275. doi: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.01.005. Epub 2022 Jan 31.

Abstract

Sex hormones are crucial for the body's development and function. Therefore, many transgender people seek hormone therapy as part of their transition. However, sex hormones modulate cancer risk. Studying sex hormones in cisgender and transgender populations will improve our knowledge of their biological role in cancer and reduce health disparities.

Keywords: cancer risk; oestrogen; sex hormones; sex steroids; testosterone; transgender.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Transgender Persons*
  • Transsexualism*

Substances

  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones