Top pediatrician reviews England's treatment guidelines for children with gender dysphoria

After an illustrious 30-year career as one of England’s leading pediatricians, Dr. Hilary Cass envisioned a retirement filled with saxophone melodies. However, her plans took an unexpected turn when she embarked on a project of international significance.

England's Growing Challenge

In 2020, England was grappling with a significant surge in the number of children experiencing gender distress, also known as dysphoria. The nation's sole youth gender clinic was facing turmoil, with a staggering increase in the waiting list. This resulted in prolonged waiting periods for numerous young patients, some enduring years before securing an appointment. Moreover, allegations of staff members being coerced into approving puberty-blocking drugs for children had surfaced through whistle-blower complaints. Meanwhile, a former patient had sued the clinic, alleging a hasty transition process during her teenage years.

Dr. Cass's Call to Action

Given her extensive background as the president of the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health, Dr. Cass was requested by the National Health Service to conduct an independent evaluation. Despite never having treated children with gender dysphoria, her expertise was sought to chart the way forward for the agency's approach to this complex and sensitive issue.