HHS Releases Controversial Report Critical of Trans Youth Treatments

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a 400-page report critical of gender-affirming medical care for trans youth, arguing that treatments like puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries carry significant risks and lack sufficient evidence of benefit. The report claims there is no international consensus on best practices and criticizes current U.S. approaches that align with the gender-affirming model recommended by major medical organizations. Supporters of the report, including the American College of Pediatricians and some advocacy groups, praise its stance as protective of children, while critics—including leading medical bodies like the American Academy of Pediatrics—condemn the document as misrepresenting medical consensus and relying on discredited sources. Medical professionals and LGBTQ+ advocates argue the report is politically motivated, methodologically flawed, and could promote harmful alternatives like conversion therapy. The authorship of the report was not disclosed, raising further concerns about transparency. Debate continues over the scientific validity and policy implications of the HHS findings.