Pediatricians: No Evidence for ‘Gender Affirming’ Treatments
American College of Pediatricians Challenges Gender Transitioning of Youth
A review of 60 studies conducted on the mental health of transgender-identifying youth has raised concerns about the effectiveness of current “gender affirming” medication and surgical protocols. The American College of Pediatricians, a group representing pediatricians, issued a position statement opposing the gender transitioning of youth based on this literature review.
The position statement comes in the wake of a scientific integrity complaint filed against Rachel Levine, an official from the Department of Health and Human Services, who claimed that there is no argument among medical professionals regarding the value and importance of gender-affirming care. However, the complaint revealed that HHS provided only two pages of scientific evidence to support this claim.
The American College of Pediatricians, a smaller group of pediatricians, formed partly due to concerns over the larger American Association of Pediatrics’ activist statements being misconstrued as representing the views of all pediatricians. The group emphasizes the need for physicians to be alarmed by the sharp increase in the number of youth questioning their gender, considering the well-documented problems often associated with being transgender.
Challenging Assumptions
The position paper by the American College of Pediatricians challenges the notion that society’s lack of acceptance is solely responsible for the mental issues faced by transgender individuals. It suggests that children may be transgender due to other mental issues, such as autism, rather than developing mental issues as a result of societal non-acceptance. The paper highlights the need to consider underlying conditions that may contribute to confusion about gender.
Furthermore, the paper reveals that studies have found social problems among transgender-identifying youth regardless of whether they undergo gender transition. It also points out that many youth who question their gender eventually change their minds, while those who undergo affirmation are more likely to face long-term mental problems associated with transgenderism.
Examining the Data
When activists cite studies suggesting that affirmed transgenders fare better than non-affirmed ones, a closer look at the data reveals that the slight difference in suicidality between the two groups is overshadowed by the unacceptably high suicide rates for both. For instance, one study promoting puberty blockers found that 42% of those who received care still attempted suicide.
Additionally, a study using Denmark’s national database found that transgender individuals were 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population. This raises questions about the effectiveness of accommodating and supporting transgender individuals as a treatment.
Alternative Approach
The American College of Pediatricians concludes that it cannot support the social affirmation, medical intervention, or surgical mutilation of children and adolescents identifying as transgender or gender nonconforming. Instead, it advocates for intensive psychotherapy for individuals and families to determine and address the underlying causes of their gender incongruence. The group also emphasizes the need for more attention and support for individuals seeking help in detransitioning.
How can the healthcare system provide evidence-based interventions that support the well-being and autonomy of transgender-identifying youth
L health struggles of transgender-identifying youth. It argues that there are multiple factors at play, including biological, psychological, and social influences. The paper highlights the need for a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to address the mental health concerns of these youth, rather than relying solely on gender-affirming treatments.
The American College of Pediatricians brings attention to the limited evidence supporting the long-term effectiveness and safety of hormonal treatments and surgeries for gender transitioning. It argues that more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits associated with these interventions. The group emphasizes the importance of informed consent, highlighting the need for young individuals to fully understand the potential long-term consequences of transitioning.
In addition, the position statement points out the ethical concerns surrounding the medicalization of gender dysphoria in children and adolescents. It argues that medical interventions should be approached with caution, as children are still developing and exploring their identities. The group encourages the utilization of non-invasive and reversible interventions, such as counseling and therapy, as the primary methods of support for gender-questioning youth.
The Controversy
This position statement has not been without controversy. Critics argue that the American College of Pediatricians is a conservative-leaning organization with a biased stance on LGBTQ+ issues. They accuse the group of cherry-picking studies that support their position while disregarding the majority of medical and mental health organizations that endorse gender-affirming care. Critics claim that the position statement undermines the experiences and well-being of transgender-identifying youth, ultimately perpetuating their marginalization and discrimination.
Proponents of the American College of Pediatricians’ position statement argue that it provides a necessary counterbalance against what they perceive as an overly enthusiastic endorsement of gender transitioning. They support the assertion that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term consequences of hormonal treatments and surgeries, particularly in youth who may not have a full understanding of the potential permanent effects.
The Way Forward
The debate surrounding gender transitioning in youth is complex and often emotionally charged. It is important to recognize the need for respectful dialogue and careful consideration of all available evidence. Rather than dismissing opposing viewpoints, it is crucial to engage in a critical examination of the available research and to continue conducting studies to fill the gaps in our current understanding.
Ultimately, the goal should be to provide the best possible care for all individuals, including transgender-identifying youth. This will require collaboration between medical professionals, mental health experts, educators, and families. By considering a range of perspectives and promoting evidence-based interventions, we can work towards creating a healthcare system that supports the well-being and autonomy of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
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