The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a detailed 400-page report focused on treatment for pediatric patients with gender dysphoria (GD), primarily for those under 18 years old. This report emphasizes a need for more psychological therapy and less reliance on medical procedures like puberty blockers and hormones.
1. Report Overview:
• The report titled "Treatment for Pediatric Gender Dysphoria" critiques current treatment standards for transgender youth issued by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health.
• It reflects a shift in government policy on the care of transgender minors, aligning with an executive order from President Trump that seeks to prevent federal support for gender transitions for those under 19.
2. Findings and Recommendations:
• The report suggests following the UK’s Cass Review, advocating for increased therapy and reduced medical interventions for children.
• It questions claims that gender-affirming care is essential for mental health and challenges the notion that such care is "lifesaving. "
3. International Context:
• Internationally, various countries are reevaluating gender-affirming treatments, with several like Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and more limiting medical interventions for minors.
• The UK closed its Gender Identity Development Service following the Cass Review, indicating a shift towards more supportive, psychological care rather than purely medical solutions.
4. Suicide Rates and Mental Health:
• The report cites that while individuals with GD have higher instances of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, completed suicides are rare.
• There is no clear evidence linking suicidal tendencies directly to GD, as they often occur alongside other mental health issues.
5. Potential Harms of Treatment:
• Concerns about the long-term effects, including infertility from puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones, are noted as possible serious risks.
• It questions the evidence base regarding the effectiveness of medical and surgical interventions in improving mental health outcomes for minors.
6. Authorship and Review Process:
• The HHS report was compiled by contributors from diverse political backgrounds, focusing on scientific principles. The names of the contributors are not disclosed to protect the review's integrity.
The HHS’s report on pediatric gender dysphoria treatment emphasizes more psychological support and skepticism towards medical interventions, reflecting a broader reconsideration of gender-affirming care in the U. S. and worldwide. It underscores the need for evidence-based practices in handling cases of gender dysphoria among minors and highlights significant concerns regarding current treatment protocols.
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