New Data Shows Dramatic Increase in Gender-Affirming Surgeries Among Minors
Written by Mary Olisa on October 10, 2024
The database “Does My Hospital Transition Kids?” has revealed a significant number of minors undergoing gender-affirming surgeries in the United States between 2019 and 2023. Over 5,700 minors underwent these surgeries, including mastectomies and genital reassignment procedures. Additionally, thousands of minors received puberty blockers or hormone replacement therapy.
The data was collected from insurance claims and shows a significant increase in the number of these procedures over the past few years.
The database aims to provide transparency and information about gender-affirming care for minors. Some activists criticize the medical field for rushing minors into irreversible treatments, while others argue for the importance of providing these services to transgender youth.
The report also highlights the significant regional variations in transgender medical care across the United States. Some states have seen a higher number of these procedures than others, indicating that access to gender-affirming care may vary depending on location.
Furthermore, the database shows that the cost of medical care for these treatments has been significant. The insurance claims for these treatments, covering roughly 14,000 patients, amounted to $119 million, with California alone accounting for more than $28 million from 2,000 patients.
The findings of the database have sparked debate and discussion about the appropriate age for minors to undergo gender-affirming surgeries and the long-term consequences of these procedures. Some argue that these surgeries should be delayed until adulthood, while others believe that they can be beneficial for transgender youth.
Despite the controversy surrounding gender-affirming care for minors, the database provides valuable information that can help policymakers, healthcare providers, and families make informed decisions about these treatments. As the number of transgender youth continues to increase, it is important to have a better understanding of the prevalence and impact of gender-affirming care.