Why are we doing this research?
Cincinnati Children’s is conducting a research study to learn more about how puberty and treatments that suppress puberty affect bone density and bone marrow in transgender or gender nonconforming children AFAB.
Who can participate?
Transgender or gender nonconforming children AFAB 9 to 12 years old who will be starting a medication to stop puberty (a GnRH agonist or puberty blocker) may be eligible to participate.
What will happen in the study?
This study includes 2 study visits over 1 year. Here is what will happen in this study:
Your child will:
- Have their height and weight obtained
- Have their blood pressure, respiratory rate and pulse measured
- Answer questions about their health history, diet and exercise habits
- Have a DXA scan of their body and spine in an open machine to measure bone density and body composition at each visit
- Have a pQCT scan of their leg in an open machine to measure bone mineral density at each visit
- Have an MRI scan of their knee to measure bone marrow composition at each study visit
Parents interested in having their child participate will be given a consent form that thoroughly explains all of the details of the study. A member of the study staff will review the consent form with you and will be sure that all of your questions are answered.
What are the good things that can happen from this research?
You or your child will not have a direct medical benefit. However, the information we learn from this study may help us to know more about the effects of puberty blockers on bone health in transgender and gender nonconforming children AFAB. A radiologist will review the baseline MRI images to make sure that there are no concerns that need follow up with a medical doctor.
Will you/your child be paid to be in this research study?
Families will receive up to $100 for two study visits over one year.