Are Transgender People at Risk of Breast Cancer?

Yes, transgender people who were assigned male at birth and are taking hormone therapy to transition to female may be at an increased risk of breast cancer. This is because hormone therapy typically involves taking estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of breast tissue. The risk of breast cancer increases with the duration of hormone therapy and the cumulative dose of estrogen. However, the absolute risk of breast cancer in transgender women is still relatively low.

Transgender men who were assigned female at birth and are taking hormone therapy to transition to male may also be at an increased risk of breast cancer, although the risk is lower than in transgender women. This is because hormone therapy for transgender men typically involves taking testosterone, which can suppress the growth of breast tissue.

It is important for transgender people to be aware of the potential risks of breast cancer and to talk to their doctor about ways to reduce their risk. This may include regular breast exams, mammograms, and breast self-exams.