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Topaz E, Perl L, Raphael I, Sheppes T, Erez G, Israeli G, Segev-Becker A, Oren A, Shechner T. Mental health and timing of gender-related events among transgender and gender-diverse children and adolescents seeking gender-affirming consultation and care. Psychiatry Res 2024; 342:116175. [PMID: 39278194 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth encounter unique challenges affecting their mental health, largely related to societal stigma and gender dysphoria. Limited research considers the specific needs of TGD youth. This study examined demographic and developmental factors, including the ages at which gender-related events occur, and their relationship to mental health among TGD youth seeking gender-affirming consultation and care (GACC). We examined the medical records of 674 TGD children and adolescents, comparing demographics, gender-related events, and mental health across gender groups. The total sample comprised 261 patients assigned male at birth, and 413 patients assigned female at birth. Non-binary individuals reported higher rates of psychopathology compared to binary transgender patients, with transgender boys exhibiting higher rates than transgender girls. Seeking GACC at a more advanced pubertal stage and older age was associated with an increased likelihood of psychopathology. Later recollection of first gender incongruence memory was correlated with higher rates of depression and anxiety. Finally, socioeconomic status was linked to GACC healthcare-seeking behaviors. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing the diverse experiences and needs of TGD youth seeking GACC services, highlighting that early identification and access to care may be crucial for improving mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erez Topaz
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Liat Perl
- The Institute of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Ido Raphael
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tamar Sheppes
- The Institute of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Galit Erez
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Psychiatry Division, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Galit Israeli
- The Institute of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Anat Segev-Becker
- The Institute of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Asaf Oren
- The Institute of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Tomer Shechner
- School of Psychological Sciences and the Integrated Brain and Behavior Research Center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Nyquist CB, Torgersen L, David LW, Diseth TH, Magnus P, Biele GPE, Waehre A. Population-adjusted numbers, demographics and mental health among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence over two decades. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02508-5. [PMID: 39008097 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02508-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Over the last decade, there has been a sharp increase in young people seeking medical treatment for gender dysphoria/gender incongruence (GD/GI). The aims of this study were to calculate yearly population-adjusted numbers of children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI) at Oslo University Hospital (OUS) from 2000 to 2022; to describe the demographic characteristics and prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses, self-harm and suicide attempts among the referred from 2000 to 2020; and to investigate time trends. The study used data from the Gender Incongruence Registry for Children and Adolescents (GIRCA) in Norway. All persons under 18 years (n = 1258) referred to the NCGI between 2000 and 2020 were included: 68.4% assigned female gender at birth (AFAB) and 31.6% assigned male gender at birth (AMAB). We found a sharp increase in referrals to the NCGI favouring AFAB over AMAB. Nearly two in three (64.5%) had one or more registered psychiatric diagnoses. Self-harm was registered among 35.5%, and 12.7% had attempted suicide. Registered psychiatric diagnoses were significantly (p ≤ 0.001) more prevalent among AFAB (67.8%) than AMAB (57.4%). The number of registered diagnoses per person decreased significantly over time, with an average reduction of 0.02 diagnoses per person per year. Although there was a downward time trend in registered diagnoses per person, the total mental health burden among children and adolescents with GI emphasizes the need for a holistic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Bjertness Nyquist
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Leila Torgersen
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Linda W David
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond Haaken Diseth
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per Magnus
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Anne Waehre
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Altabas V, Galjuf V, Žegura I, Jokić Begić N, Moravek D, Arbanas G, Begić D. Referrals For Gender-Affirming Hormone Treatment in Croatia's National Network for Transgender Healthcare. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:2045-2052. [PMID: 38691268 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02867-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
A network of healthcare professionals specializing in transgender care was established in Croatia in 2011, and legal advancements were subsequently made in 2014. Both achievements made gender transition more transparent and thus more attainable in Croatia. This observational study was conducted to assess the number of transgender individuals initiating gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) in Croatia and describes trends in age and sex assigned at birth. Between 2011 and 2022, a total of 111 transgender individuals initiated GAHT. Within the cohort, 52 were assigned male at birth (AMAB) and 59 were assigned female at birth (AFAB). The overall annual incidence rate of transgender individuals initiating GAHT was 0.52 per 100,000 age-adjusted individuals. There was a statistically significant increase (p < 0.01) in transgender individuals commencing GAHT before the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, a rising trend toward masculinizing rather than feminizing treatment was identified (p < 0.05), particularly among younger transgender individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these trends in 2020, except for the trend of initiating therapy at a younger age (p < 0.01). The annual incidence and age distribution trends of transgender individuals initiating GAHT in Croatia closely mirrored those in other European countries, with a higher prevalence of individuals assigned female at birth. The study underscores a significant rise in the number of individuals initiating gender-affirming hormone treatment, emphasizing the need for proper legal regulation and healthcare system response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velimir Altabas
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Sestre Milosrdnice UHC, Vinogradska Cesta 29, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Vesna Galjuf
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Žegura
- Vrapče University Psychiatric Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nataša Jokić Begić
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Goran Arbanas
- Vrapče University Psychiatric Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Dražen Begić
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Zagreb UHC, Zagreb, Croatia
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Steininger J, Knaus S, Kaufmann U, Ott J, Riedl S. Treatment trajectories of gender incongruent Austrian youth seeking gender-affirming hormone therapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1258495. [PMID: 38774227 PMCID: PMC11106449 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1258495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to describe the treatment trajectories of Austrian children and adolescents with gender incongruence seeking gender-affirming medical care. Methods Patients who presented with gender incongruence at the pediatric outpatient clinic for differences in sex development at a large university hospital in Austria from January 2008 to December 2022 were included in a retrospective chart review, and analyzed regarding referral numbers, patient characteristics, treatment trajectories, fertility preservation, and legal gender marker changes. Results Of 310 eligible patients, 230 (74.2%) were assigned female at birth (AFAB), and 80 (25.8%) were assigned male at birth (AMAB). The number of referrals increased steeply from 2008 to 2018, whereafter it stabilized at around 50 per year. At the time of initial presentation, the median age of patients was 15.6 years (IQR 14.3-16.8). AMAB individuals tended to be younger (median 14.9 years, IQR 13.9-16.8) than AFAB individuals (median 15.8 years, IQR 14.4-16.8; p= 0.012). 207 (66,8%) completed the assessment process and were eligible for gender affirming medical treatment (GAMT). Of those, 89% (186/207) commenced gender affirming hormone therapy in the pediatric outpatient clinic (79/186 received GnRHa monotherapy, 91/186 GnRHa and sex steroids, and 16/186 sex steroid monotherapy). Of the 54 AMAB individuals receiving GAMT, 6 (11.1%) completed fertility preservation prior to therapy initiation. Only 1/132 AFAB adolescents receiving GAMT completed fertility preservation. Chest masculinization surgery was performed in 22 cases (16.7%), and breast augmentation in two cases (3.7%) between the ages of 16 and 18. Changes in legal gender marker were common, with 205 individuals (66.1%) having changed their legal gender marker. Conclusion This is the first time that treatment trajectories, fertility preservation rates, and changes of legal gender marker have been described in Austrian adolescents with gender incongruence seeking GAMT. The majority received GAMT and changed their legal gender marker, while gender affirming surgery rates were low, and utilization of fertility preservation treatment options was rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jojo Steininger
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sarah Knaus
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Kaufmann
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Ott
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Riedl
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, St. Anna Kinderspital, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Marinelli L, Cacciani M, Scipio S, Bichiri A, Profeta A, Granata ARM, Simoni M, Lanfranco F, Manieri C, Ghigo E, Motta G. Gender-affirming hormone treatment: friend or foe? Long-term follow-up of 755 transgender people. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:1091-1100. [PMID: 37889433 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02220-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) is one of the main demands of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people, who are usually categorised as transgender assigned-male-at birth (AMAB) and assigned-female-at birth (AFAB). The aim of the study is to investigate the long-term therapeutic management of GAHT, considering hormonal targets, treatment adjustments and GAHT safety. METHODS A retrospective, longitudinal, observational, multicentre clinical study was carried out. Transgender people, both AMAB and AFAB, were recruited from two Endocrinology Units in Italy (Turin and Modena) between 2005 and 2022. Each subject was managed with specific and personalized follow-up depending on the clinical practice of the Centre. All clinical data routinely collected were extracted, including anthropometric and biochemical parameters, lifestyle habits, GAHT regime, and cardiovascular events. RESULTS Three-hundred and two transgender AFAB and 453 transgender AMAB were included. Similar follow-up duration (p = 0.974) and visits' number (p = 0.384) were detected between groups. The transgender AFAB group reached therapeutic goals in less time (p = 0.002), fewer visits (p = 0.006) and fewer adjustments of GAHT scheme (p = 0.024). Accordingly, transgender AFAB showed a higher adherence to medical prescriptions compared to transgender AMAB people (p < 0.001). No significantly increased rate of cardiovascular events was detected in both groups. CONCLUSION Our real-world clinical study shows that transgender AFAB achieve hormone target earlier and more frequently in comparison to transgender AMAB individuals. Therefore, transgender AMAB people may require more frequent check-ups in order to tailor feminizing GAHT and increase therapeutic adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - G Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - L Marinelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - M Cacciani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - S Scipio
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - A Bichiri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A Profeta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - A R M Granata
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - M Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - F Lanfranco
- Division of Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, Humanitas Gradenigo, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - C Manieri
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - E Ghigo
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - G Motta
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Calcaterra V, Tornese G, Zuccotti G, Staiano A, Cherubini V, Gaudino R, Fazzi EM, Barbi E, Chiarelli F, Corsello G, Esposito SMR, Ferrara P, Iughetti L, Laforgia N, Maghnie M, Marseglia G, Perilongo G, Pettoello-Mantovani M, Ruggieri M, Russo G, Salerno M, Striano P, Valerio G, Wasniewska M. Adolescent gender dysphoria management: position paper from the Italian Academy of Pediatrics, the Italian Society of Pediatrics, the Italian Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, the Italian Society of Adolescent Medicine and the Italian Society of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry. Ital J Pediatr 2024; 50:73. [PMID: 38637868 PMCID: PMC11025175 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-024-01644-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In response to the imperative need for standardized support for adolescent Gender Dysphoria (GD), the Italian Academy of Pediatrics, in collaboration with the Italian Society of Pediatrics, the Italian Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Italian Society of Adolescent Medicine and Italian Society of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry is drafting a position paper. The purpose of this paper is to convey the author's opinion on the topic, offering foundational information on potential aspects of gender-affirming care and emphasizing the care and protection of children and adolescents with GD. MAIN BODY Recognizing that adolescents may choose interventions based on their unique needs and goals and understanding that every individual within this group has a distinct trajectory, it is crucial to ensure that each one is welcomed and supported. The approach to managing individuals with GD is a multi-stage process involving a multidisciplinary team throughout all phases. Decisions regarding treatment should be reached collaboratively by healthcare professionals and the family, while considering the unique needs and circumstances of the individual and be guided by scientific evidence rather than biases or ideologies. Politicians and high court judges should address discrimination based on gender identity in legislation and support service development that aligns with the needs of young people. It is essential to establish accredited multidisciplinary centers equipped with the requisite skills and experience to effectively manage adolescents with GD, thereby ensuring the delivery of high-quality care. CONCLUSION Maintaining an evidence-based approach is essential to safeguard the well-being of transgender and gender diverse adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Calcaterra
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milano, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tornese
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Pediatric Department, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milano, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Via GB Grassi, n.74, Milano, 20157, Italy.
| | - Annamaria Staiano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Section of Pediatrics, University Federico II of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentino Cherubini
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, "G. Salesi Hospital", Ancona, Italy
| | - Rossella Gaudino
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Maria Fazzi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Corsello
- Division of Pediatrics, "A.R.N.A.S." Civic Hospital, Di Cristina Benfratelli, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Susanna Maria Roberta Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Pietro Ferrara
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
- Operative Research Unit of Pediatrics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Roma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- Paediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Nicola Laforgia
- Section of Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophtalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Marseglia
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, Pediatric Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Pediatric Clinic, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Perilongo
- Department of Rare Diseases, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Woman's & Child's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Martino Ruggieri
- Unit of Pediatric Clinic, Centre for Rare Diseases of the Nervous System in Childhood, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanna Russo
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophtalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giuliana Valerio
- Department of Medical, Movement and Wellbeing studies, University of Napoli "Parthenope", Napoli, Italy
| | - Malgorzata Wasniewska
- Department of Human Pathology in Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Masala B, Love A, Carmichael P, Masic U. Demographics of referrals to a specialist gender identity service in the UK between 2017 and 2020. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 29:624-636. [PMID: 37698232 DOI: 10.1177/13591045231202372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Trends in clinical referrals to specialist gender services historically comprised more assigned male at birth young people. In the last decade, this has shifted in adolescent samples to more assigned female young people. An updated review of the current patterns of referrals is important to better understand the potential changing needs of clinically referred gender-diverse children and adolescents. We assessed the demographics of referrals to the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) and their attendance patterns from 2017 to 2020. During this period, 9555 referrals were received in total, most were in adolescence (n = 7901, 82.7%), and more assigned female (age range = 1-18 years; M = 14.05; SD = 2.5) were referred than assigned male young people overall (n = 6823, 71.4%). A larger proportion of assigned female adolescents (assigned female: n = 5835, 62.3%, assigned male: n = 1897, 20.3%) and assigned female children (n = 988, 10.6%, assigned male: n = 640, 6.8%) were referred. For 2%, sex assigned at birth was unrecorded, 83.4% were White British and 36.6% had an unidentified ethnicity. Only 4% did not attend a first appointment, indicating the need for care from this specialist service. With more young people presenting to gender services, understanding the demographics of young people seeking gender care is vital for service provision. Future research should explore how to increase access to gender care for ethnic minorities, and how to support those accessing services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibi Masala
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Amy Love
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Polly Carmichael
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Una Masic
- Gender Identity Development Service, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Gómez Hoyos E, Cabrera García P, Gómez Balaguer M. Executive summary: Quality standards of care units for people with sexual and gender diversity. ENDOCRINOL DIAB NUTR 2024; 71:181-186. [PMID: 38714477 DOI: 10.1016/j.endien.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/10/2024]
Abstract
Comprehensive biopsychosocial care for people with gender incongruence (ICD 11) who are transgender (trans) or gender diverse is a complex process in which the quality of the medical transition can only be guaranteed after a multidisciplinary approach, through teams that integrate professionals with training and experience not only in medicine but also in diversity and gender identity. Based on this, the Gonad, Identity and Sexual Differentiation working group of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (GT-GIDSEEN) has established minimum care requirements that aim to guarantee adequate health care for these people by professionals. A position paper has been produced and is available at https://www.seen.es/portal/documentos/estandares-calidad-gidseen-2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Gómez Hoyos
- Servicio de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid-IEN, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Patricia Cabrera García
- Servicio de Endocrinología y Nutrición, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Canarias, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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Boogers LS, Wiepjes CM, Staphorsius AS, Klink DT, Ciancia S, Romani A, Stolk THR, van den Boogaard E, Steensma TD, de Vries ALC, van Trotsenburg ASP, den Heijer M, Fisher AD, Cools M, Hannema SE. A European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence in adolescents. J Sex Med 2024; 21:350-356. [PMID: 38427555 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge regarding the effects and side effects of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in adults is rapidly growing, partly through international research networks such as the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI). However, data on the effects of puberty suppression (PS) and GAHT in transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth are limited, although these data are of crucial importance, given the controversies surrounding this treatment. AIM We sought to present a detailed overview of the design of the ENIGI Adolescents study protocol, including the first baseline data. METHODS The ENIGI Adolescents study is an ongoing multicenter prospective cohort study. This study protocol was developed by 3 European centers that provide endocrine care for TGD adolescents and were already part of the ENIGI collaboration: Amsterdam, Ghent, and Florence. OUTCOMES Study outcomes include physical effects and side effects, laboratory parameters, bone mineral density, anthropometric characteristics, attitudes toward fertility and fertility preservation, and psychological well-being, which are measured in the study participants during PS and GAHT, up to 3 years after the start of GAHT. RESULTS Between November 2021 and May 2023, 172 TGD adolescents were included in the ENIGI Adolescents protocol, of whom 51 were assigned male at birth (AMAB) and 121 were assigned female at birth (AFAB); 3 AFAB participants reported a nonbinary gender identification. A total of 76 participants were included at the start of PS, at a median (IQR) age of 13.7 (12.9-16.5) years in AMAB and 13.5 (12.4-16.1) years in AFAB individuals. The remaining 96 participants were included at start of GAHT, at a median (IQR) age of 15.9 (15.1-17.4) years in AFAB and 16.0 (15.1-16.8) years in AMAB individuals. At the time of this report the study was open for inclusion and follow-up measurements were ongoing. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS In response to the rising demand for gender-affirming treatment among TGD youth, this ongoing study is fulfilling the need for prospective data on the effects and safety of PS and GAHT, thus providing a foundation for evidence-based healthcare decisions. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This study has a strong multicenter, prospective design that allows for systematic data collection. The use of clinical and self-reported data offers a broad range of outcomes to evaluate. Nevertheless, the burden of additional measurements and questionnaires may lead to withdrawal or lower response rates. Few participants with a non-binary gender identity have been included. CONCLUSION With the ENIGI Adolescents study we aim to create a comprehensive dataset that we can use for a wide range of studies to address current controversies and uncertainties and to improve healthcare for TGD adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidewij S Boogers
- Department of Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal M Wiepjes
- Department of Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke S Staphorsius
- Department of Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel T Klink
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Silvia Ciancia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Alessia Romani
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Tessa H R Stolk
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emmy van den Boogaard
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas D Steensma
- Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelou L C de Vries
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A S Paul van Trotsenburg
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Department of Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra D Fisher
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Martine Cools
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sabine E Hannema
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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David LW, Stenberg N, Diseth TH, Helverschou SB, Nyquist CB, Øien RA, Waehre A. Autistic Characteristics in a Nationally Representative Clinical Sample of Adolescents Seeking Medical Gender-Affirming Treatment in Norway. J Autism Dev Disord 2023:10.1007/s10803-023-06181-6. [PMID: 38055182 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-023-06181-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several studies have reported on the intersection of autism and gender incongruence (GI) in clinical populations. This study aims to investigate autistic characteristics and registered autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD) in a clinical cohort of 83 adolescents referred to the National Gender Team for Children and Adolescents in Norway during 2020. METHODS Parents completed the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Background information and registered psychiatric diagnoses were extracted from patient files. RESULTS The results showed that 25% of the participants scored within the clinical range on the SRS: 27.4% of adolescents who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) and 19.0% of adolescents who were assigned male at birth (AMAB). AFAB had significantly higher scores on SRS Total Scale and the Social Motivation and Autistic Mannerisms subscales compared to the female norm group. AMAB had higher scores on the Social Motivation subscale and lower scores on the Social Awareness subscale, compared to the male norm population. Information from patient files revealed that 67.5% had one or more registered psychiatric diagnosis. 9.6% had received an ASD diagnosis, all AFAB. 18.1% had received an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. The most common psychiatric diagnoses were depression (25.3%) and anxiety disorders (18.1%). Further, 44.6% had a history of self-harm, and 15.7% had a history of a suicide attempt. CONCLUSION The results showed an overrepresentation of ASD diagnoses and autistic characteristics measured by SRS for AFAB. There was an overrepresentation of psychiatric diagnoses for both the AFAB and the AMAB group in this study sample. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda W David
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nina Stenberg
- Regional Resource Center for Autism, ADHD and Tourette Syndrome, South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond H Diseth
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sissel Berge Helverschou
- NevSom - Norwegian Centre of Expertice for Neurodevelopmental disorders and Hypersomnias, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie Bjertness Nyquist
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Roald A Øien
- The Arctic University of Norway, UNN - University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- School of Medicine, Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, USA
| | - Anne Waehre
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health in Hospitals, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Hines NG, Greene DN, Imborek KL, Krasowski MD. Patterns of gender identity data within electronic health record databases can be used as a tool for identifying and estimating the prevalence of gender-expansive people. JAMIA Open 2023; 6:ooad042. [PMID: 37359949 PMCID: PMC10290553 DOI: 10.1093/jamiaopen/ooad042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Electronic health records (EHRs) within the United States increasingly include sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) fields. We assess how well SOGI fields, along with International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes and medication records, identify gender-expansive patients. Materials and Methods The study used a data set of all patients that had in-person inpatient or outpatient encounters at an academic medical center in a rural state between December 1, 2018 and February 17, 2022. Chart review was performed for all patients meeting at least one of the following criteria: differences between legal sex, sex assigned at birth, and gender identity (excluding blank fields) in the EHR SOGI fields; ICD-10 codes related to gender dysphoria or unspecified endocrine disorder; prescription for estradiol or testosterone suggesting use of gender-affirming hormones. Results Out of 123 441 total unique patients with in-person encounters, we identified a total of 2236 patients identifying as gender-expansive, with 1506 taking gender-affirming hormones. SOGI field differences or ICD-10 codes related to gender dysphoria or both were found in 2219 of 2236 (99.2%) patients who identify as gender-expansive, and 1500 of 1506 (99.6%) taking gender-affirming hormones. For the gender-expansive population, assigned female at birth was more common in the 12-29 year age range, while assigned male at birth was more common for those 40 years and older. Conclusions SOGI fields and ICD-10 codes identify a high percentage of gender-expansive patients at an academic medical center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole G Hines
- Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Dina N Greene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- LetsGetChecked Laboratories, Monrovia, California, USA
| | | | - Matthew D Krasowski
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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