On Wednesday, the American College of Pediatricians, a group of medical experts committed to protecting children’s health, unveiled a new program. The purpose is to discuss the possibility of using experimental medications and therapies with young people struggling with gender identity issues.
New tools for parents, youth, clinicians, educators, and policymakers are available on ACPeds’ new website, established as part of the organization’s Biological Integrity Initiative. Videos, a map of state legislation on puberty blockers and gender care, and listings for doctors and therapists who may treat minors with gender dysphoria are just some of the materials available on the website, as stated in the organization’s news release.
In a news release, ACPeds declared their intention to increase their involvement in testifying and serving as amici curiae. More studies and position statements will be published, and they will keep speaking out openly on gender dysphoria. ACPeds will also offer training for medical practitioners who are interested in testifying or giving presentations on the topic of gender dysphoria.
Dr. Jill Simons, ACPeds’ executive director, has noted a rise in the need for information and help on gender dysphoria. She hoped everyone would find the Biological Integrity Initiative a helpful and relevant tool.
Simons defines biological integrity as “a state of harmony between an individual’s mental and physical selves.” Adolescents and younger children should be taught to be proud of who they are, regardless of their gender. Babies always get the right body at birth.
ACPeds president Dr. Michael Artigues raised the alarm about the trend of giving children experimental medications and operations. He is concerned that doctors who emphasize ethics and compassion may be put off by this method since it is ideological, ignores biological facts, and contradicts standard medical practice.
Transgender surgery and hormone therapy have been associated with severe health risks. Some examples are heart disease, stroke, blood clots, cancer, bone density loss, infertility, and suicide. Studies show that most kids with gender dysphoria will grow independently by late adolescence without using hormones or surgery.
There has been a dramatic surge in transgender minors undergoing surgical treatments recently. This trend has emerged simultaneously when young students nationwide are being aggressively encouraged to identify as transgender, gender-fluid, or non-binary.
More than 20 states now have legislation that makes it illegal or difficult for minors to access investigational medicines and therapies.
