Summary
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a review on pediatric gender dysphoria treatments, highlighting concerns about the use of puberty blockers and hormones in youth. The review discusses weak evidence supporting these treatments and notes that several countries have restricted such practices due to insufficient reliable evidence.
Key Facts
- The HHS review is about treatments for pediatric gender dysphoria.
- Puberty blockers and hormones are used in these treatments.
- The initial research supporting these treatments was based on a small study from the Netherlands involving 70 adolescents.
- Some patients from the original study encountered serious health issues, including one fatality.
- The review highlights justice concerns about using unproven treatments on gay, lesbian, and bisexual youth.
- Finland, Sweden, and the U.K. have restricted such treatments due to a lack of reliable evidence.
- HHS review co-authors express concern over the medicalization of gender dysphoria in youth without strong scientific backing.
