Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health New Federal Report Blasts Gender-Affirming Care for Kids - AI Podcast
Jun 28, 2025
A federal report reveals troubling trends in gender-affirming care for minors, with diagnoses of gender dysphoria tripling since 2017. Concerns are raised about the lack of robust evidence supporting the effectiveness of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones. These treatments can disrupt natural development, leading to serious health risks such as weakened bones and hormonal imbalances. The discussion emphasizes the importance of thorough psychological assessments and parental involvement in safeguarding children's well-being in the face of rapid medical decisions.
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Rising Gender Dysphoria Diagnoses
- Gender dysphoria diagnoses in youth tripled from 2017 to 2021, rising from 15,000 to over 42,000.
- Medical interventions often follow minimal evaluation despite weak evidence of long-term benefit.
Weak Evidence for Medical Benefits
- Studies show no strong evidence that puberty blockers or hormones improve mental health or reduce suicide among youth.
- The interventions carry permanent risks while suicide rates in gender-distressed youth are statistically rare.
Skipping Psychological Screening Risks
- Clinics often fast-track gender-affirming medication within hours, skipping thorough psychological evaluations.
- This neglects possible underlying causes like anxiety, depression, trauma, or autism traits.
