The research followed data from 1,317 participants in five Brazilian capitals, highlighting issues such as limited access to medical care and fear of discrimination.
An unprecedented study published in the Journal of Epidemiology by the Brazilian Association of Public Health (Abrasco) reveals the worrying scenario of the use of non-prescription hormones among trans women and transvestites. The research followed the data of 1,317 participants in five Brazilian capitals, highlighting issues such as limited access to medical care and fear of discrimination.
Of the 536 participants who reported current hormone use, 381 (72%) did not obtain the medication through a prescription. There was significant variation between capital cities, with São Paulo recording 52.9% and Manaus an alarming 94.7% of non-prescription use. This pattern reveals a significant gap in health services, which fail to provide the necessary support to this population.
Among trans and cross-dressing women surveyed, 86 percent reported using hormones at some point in their lives, starting at age 18.5 on average. The average age of those currently using over-the-counter hormones is 30.7. The survey also found that 74.2 percent of non-prescription hormone users had a history of sex work, and a significant portion lived in precarious economic conditions.
The Motivation for Trans Women and Crossdressers to Use Hormones Without a Prescription
Research indicates that lack of access to specialized health services is a major reason for unsupervised hormone use. Many trans and cross-dressing women report experiences of discrimination in the medical field, which prevents them from seeking professional help. Additionally, there is a desire to accelerate bodily changes, leading some to use inadequate doses of hormones.
The unsupervised use of hormones can have serious long-term health consequences. Risks include thromboembolic phenomena, such as vascular accidents, and other complications. However, the medical community does not yet have in-depth studies on the long-term effects. The provision of hormones by the Unified Health System (SUS) since 2008 is an attempt to reduce the risks associated with over-the-counter use.
The study coordinator, Maria Amelia Verasstresses to Folha de São Paulo that discrimination and lack of training among health workers are significant obstacles. Trans women and transvestites often share information with each other to compensate for the lack of professional assistance.
How can access be improved?
Katia Bassichettoauthor of the study, explains to Folha de São Paulo that the inclusion of gender affirmation procedures in the SUS depends on regional and municipal initiatives. In São Paulo, for example, the Sampa Trans network offers services in 44 primary health units. The study highlights the need for public policies aimed at this population, highlighting the large regional inequalities in access to specialized health care.
The Department of Health reported that it has 27 units ready to serve the trans population, offering multidisciplinary monitoring and surgical procedures. However, the locations of these units were not disclosed. The research highlights the importance of providing adequate care and reducing the harmful use of over-the-counter hormones.
In summary, this study not only highlights the precariousness and risks faced by trans and cross-dressing women, but also serves as a call to action for more inclusive and effective public policies. Ensuring access to safe and non-discriminatory healthcare is essential to improving the quality of life of this population.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
