Following her review into gender identity services for children and young people, Dr Hilary Cass is speaking out about the concerning spread of misinformation about her work. She reported that there was “remarkably weak” evidence on treatments such as puberty blockers and hormone prescriptions for those transitioning between sexes. However, since the publication of her review, Dr Cass claims that false reports have been circulating online, aimed at discrediting her research.
Dr Cass has made it clear how angry she is about the deluge of misinformation being spread online. She has stated the inappropriate behaviour of any adult, who deliberately sets out to put young people at risk, is unforgivable. Dr Cass doesn’t want to disregard or dismiss young people who have indeed benefited from hormone-related treatment; however, she is increasingly worried about the risk being posed to children and teenagers on the whole.
This problem isn’t just restricted to Dr Cass’s work. Historically, there has been limited data available on hormone treatments’ long-term effects, and as a result, a great deal of misinformation is available online. The anonymity and ease of access on social media platforms promote the spread of these ideas, which make it even more challenging for medical professionals to ensure that those who need critical care receive it while minimizing those at risk.
While Dr Cass recognises that not everyone will have the same negative experience under hormone treatment or with the gender identity process, this doesn’t mean that it’s acceptable to dismiss the dangers or potential for harm that exist either. With more robust studies necessary to outline these issues properly, it’s also vital that any debate or discussion remains sensible and evidence-based to help prevent further apprehension and fear among young people regarding hormones and their consequences
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