In this week's episode, Han is joined by Dr. Kai Thomas to mark Trans Day of Visibility. Kai is a postdoctoral researcher at Cardiff University and the lead investigator of the LEADING Study, which explores eating disorders in neurodivergent and gender-diverse individuals.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Kai’s personal experience of anorexia and realising they were trans during recovery
- Factors such as gender dysphoria which can trigger eating disorders in trans folks
- How gatekeeping and BMI restrictions in gender-affirming care can fuel disordered eating
- The aims of the LEADING Study and the importance of co-producing research with lived experience
- What clinicians need to better support trans and gender-diverse individuals
- The need for individualised, inclusive care and better clinical training
⏱️ Timestamps:
- [03:00] – Kai’s lived experience of anorexia and being trans
- [15:20] – Introduction to the LEADING Study and its aims
- [19:00] – Gender diversity, neurodivergence, and overlapping experiences
- [23:16] – Misconceptions: “Being trans causes eating disorders”
- [26:00] – Barriers to accessing gender-affirming care care
- [33:00] – What Kai hopes the research will change in healthcare
- [35:00] – Why clinicians need training and confidence to support trans people
The LEADING Study is looking to hear from trans, gender diverse, and nonbinary people to understand the links between gender diversity, neurodivergence and eating disorders.
We are looking for people who are…
- Aged 18+ years,
- Currently based in the UK and fluent in English,
- Trans, gender diverse, and/or non-binary,
- And have lived experience of an eating disorder (current or historical) - diagnosis not required to take part.
Email: LEADING_Study@cardiff.ac.uk | ThomasK30@cardiff.ac.uk
Socials: Linktree | Kai's LinkedIn | Kai's Research Profile
TW: This episode discusses eating disorders, gender dysphoria, disordered eating behaviours, and barriers to gender-affirming care. Please listen with care and seek support if needed.
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