Breast cancer in transgender population: incidence, risk factors, screening and peculiarities-an integrative review of the literature
- Journal of Cancer Prevention & Current Research
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Amanda da Silva Anjos,1
Ana Clara Kunz,1
Evelyn Caroline Suquebski Dib,1
João Moisés
Oliveira Lapola,1
Audrey Tieko Tsunoda2
Abstract
Aim: To address the incidence, risk factors, screening, and particularities of breast cancer
in transgender patients.
Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted with the descriptors (breast
cancer) AND (transgender), in English, at PubMed, MEDLINE, and BVS databases.
Discussion: There are a few reported cases of breast cancer in this population. Hormone
therapy has been pointed out as a possible risk factor for breast cancer, but the literature
is controversial. Screening is a challenge, with many barriers. Different medical societies
establish distinct guidelines, mainly based on mammography, according to the protocol for
cisgender women.
Conclusion: Transgender patients remain marginalized regarding health services access.
This population presents particularities inherent to the gender affirmation that should be
considered in the risk assessment, screening, and therapeutic decision making, which
should be individualized.
Keywords
breast neoplasms, transgender persons, estrogens, testosterone, cancer screening