Abstract
Background:
An altered balance of gonadal hormones in males with gender identity disorders (GIDs) may increase multiple sclerosis (MS) risk both inherently and secondary to treatment in undergoing male-to-female conversion.
Objective:
We investigated any association between GIDs and MS through analysis of record-linked hospital statistics.
Method:
Analysis of English Hospital Episode Statistics, 1999–2012.
Results:
The adjusted rate ratio (RR) of MS following GIDs in males was 6.63 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 1.81–17.01, p = 0.0002). The RR of MS following GIDs in females was 1.44 (95% CI = 0.47–3.37, p = 0.58).
Conclusion:
We report a strong association between GIDs and MS in male-to-females, supporting a potential role for low testosterone and/or feminising hormones on MS risk in males.
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