Blockers limit the production of hormones that trigger puberty. (representative picture)
Britain’s NHS last month banned the use of puberty blockers, drugs that pause the physical changes of puberty. Puberty blockers are mainly used by children who wish to change their gender. NHS England found there was “insufficient evidence” that they were safe or effective and could only be provided as part of a study. However, despite the loopholes, some children still have access to these drugs using taxpayer dollars. telegraph.
Puberty-suppressing hormones, often called puberty blockers, limit the production of hormones that trigger puberty. They are often given to children of uncertain gender to prevent physical changes such as the growth of breast or facial hair.
An interim review report by Dr Hilary Cass, released in 2022, had earlier concluded there were “evidence gaps” for the drugs and argued for changes in care strategies for children experiencing gender-related distress. British Broadcasting Corporation.But it is not expected to close a loophole that allows doctors to obtain special exemptions to prescribe drugs in special circumstances
Former British Prime Minister Liz Truss led calls for the loophole to be closed amid concerns that children would not be protected.she told telegraph“Time and time again, extremist activists exploit legal loopholes in schools, hospitals and courts. Without major legislation, the practice of prescribing puberty blockers to children will continue despite evidence of harmful consequences.”
She added: “Non-statutory guidance and scrutiny are not enough. Changes in the law are needed to protect children. I urge the Government to support my bill which will stop the supply of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones to under-18s, both of which Both medicines are available in the private sector and the NHS.”
Furthermore, Dr Louise Owen, co-chair of the Sexuality and Gender Clinical Advisory Network, said that since “the whole reason to stop prescribing puberty blockers is that there is no evidence of benefit”, it should be “impossible” for medical professionals to do so. Defense in special circumstances.
Dr Caroline Johnson, a paediatrician and Conservative member of the health select committee, said: “These drugs carry a risk of irreversible harm and irreversible changes. If the NHS plans to allow children to use these drugs alone, the problem is the rate at which they are used How high?” What is the threshold of interest that must be met? How much must be understood about the risks? What is the burden of proof?
Additionally, Conservative MP Nick Fletcher said the loophole was “abhorrent”. “We should not be giving any puberty blockers to children. I have said this many times, but unfortunately many of our organizations are suffering. We are setting young people up for a lifetime of misery,” he said.
Dr Cass’s final report, expected to be released on Wednesday, warns that children will suffer serious psychological effects if they are allowed to change their gender at school, The Daily Telegraph reports. Gender hormones and social transformation. . Advocates urged Dr Kass to make recommendations to avoid 17-year-olds being referred to adult gender clinics where they might be prescribed cross-sex hormones.
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