Cross-sectional comparison of cardiometabolic markers in transgender men receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy.

Neck circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist-to-height ratio were statistically higher in transgender men than in cisgender women.

• All three anthropometric comparisons reached statistical significance at p < 0.001
• The study included 43 transgender men compared against 15 cisgender women
• The mean age of transgender men was 29.1 ± 5.7 years
• These measures suggest a shift in fat distribution pattern toward a more male-typical profile

The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) was significantly higher in transgender men compared to cisgender women.

• The difference in AIP was statistically significant at p = 0.003
• AIP is a calculated marker used to assess cardiovascular disease risk
• This comparison was made between 43 transgender men and 15 cisgender women
• Authors note these findings should be interpreted as descriptive differences rather than evidence of increased cardiovascular risk

The overall cardiometabolic profile of transgender men receiving GAHT more closely resembled that of cisgender men than cisgender women.

• The study measured glucose, lipid profiles, total testosterone levels, AIP, and visceral adiposity index (VAI)
• Comparisons were made across three groups: 43 transgender men, 15 cisgender men, and 15 cisgender women
• This was a cross-sectional study design, limiting causal inference
• The shift in cardiometabolic markers is interpreted as consistent with masculinizing hormone effects

A reduction in HDL cholesterol was observed and identified as a finding of potential clinical interest.

• HDL cholesterol is considered a protective factor against cardiovascular disease
• The authors flagged the HDL reduction specifically as clinically noteworthy
• The finding was noted within the context of a broader lipid profile assessment
• Authors called for further longitudinal studies to clarify long-term implications

The visceral adiposity index (VAI) was calculated and assessed as part of the cardiovascular risk evaluation in transgender men.

• VAI is a scoring system used to predict cardiovascular disease risk
• Both AIP and VAI were calculated for all 73 participants in addition to standard laboratory measurements
• The study used a cross-sectional design, collecting sociodemographic data alongside metabolic and anthropometric measures
• The use of multiple CVD risk scoring systems was intended to provide a comprehensive cardiometabolic assessment