Introduction and Objective: Pediatric obesity rates continue to rise, and with them, comorbidities such as Type 2 diabetes. Transgender youth may be more susceptible to these conditions due to gender- and weight-based stigmatization, increased BMI from gender-affirming therapies, and maladaptive weight management behaviors. Furthermore, current pediatric weight management uses a “one size fits all” approach and does not consider the unique needs of this population. As such, the goal of this study is to understand patient and family experiences to inform the creation of an evidence-based care pathway for the treatment of transgender youth with obesity in order to reduce diabetes risk.Methods: This study examined the lived experiences of transgender patients with obesity and their caregivers using qualitative methodology. Six patient-caregiver dyads (N=12) participated in individual interviews. Sessions aimed to capture aspects of patients’ gender journeys, weight history, communication with healthcare providers and recommendations for improved weight management.Results: Most participants report not having experienced weight-related medical care, but note experiences of gender- and weight-stigmatizing language from providers and recognize social norms of weight are grounded in gender. Treatment program recommendations include having multidisciplinary and integrated care across clinics and locations (e.g. hospitals and schools), inclusive care and communication, and tailoring to patient goals and needs based on gender. Participants emphasize being comfortable in their own bodies being the most important end goal for a gender-focused weight management program.Conclusion: Preliminary findings highlight gaps in current care and opportunities for improved treatment in this population. Next steps include additional groups and involving healthcare providers for their insight into the construction of an affirming care pathway.
C. Theriault: None. A. Sharer: None. R. Doyle: None. K. Oyola-Cartagena: None. S. Gedeon: None. C.L. Olezeski: None. C. Finck: Advisory Panel; Harvard regenerative technologies. Other Relationship; Esophadex. M. Santos: None.
American Diabetes Association (11-22-ICTSHD-17)
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