The Majority of Gender-Affirming Surgeries Among Minors are for Cisgender Kids
In the ongoing debate over gender-affirming care, a new study published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) sheds light on a critical issue: the prevalence and nature of gender-affirming surgeries among minors. The findings provide a clear counterpoint to the pervasive myths and fears surrounding these procedures, revealing that concerns about widespread gender-affirming surgeries in children are largely unfounded.
Key Findings of the Study
Researchers examined insurance claims data from nearly 10 million minors over a four-year period, with a specific focus on the year 2019. The study uncovered that:
- Approximately 150 cases involved minors receiving gender-affirming surgeries in 2019.
- Of these, 146 cases (about 97%) were chest reduction surgeries performed on cisgender male youth. These procedures are often undertaken to address gynecomastia, a condition where males develop excess breast tissue, which can occur in nearly half of individuals undergoing testosterone-dominant puberty.
- No transgender or gender-diverse (TGD) youth under 12 years old received any gender-affirming surgeries.
- The few surgeries performed on 13-17-year-olds were almost exclusively chest-related procedures, such as mastectomies.
Implications for Anti-Trans Rhetoric
These findings are significant in dispelling several myths propagated by anti-trans rhetoric:
1. Prevalence of Surgeries on Young Children: The study clearly shows that no gender-affirming surgeries were performed on trans and gender diverse children under 12, directly countering the narrative that very young children are undergoing these procedures.
2. Nature of Surgeries: The vast majority of surgeries performed on minors were chest reduction surgeries for cisgender males, not genital surgeries or other types of gender-affirming procedures for TGD youth. This highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of what gender-affirming care entails.
3. Necessity and Appropriateness of Care: The procedures performed are medically appropriate responses to specific conditions like gynecomastia in cisgender males and gender dysphoria in transgender youth. The data reinforces that these surgeries are not conducted lightly but are necessary medical interventions.
Moving Forward with Accurate Information
As society continues to navigate the complexities of gender identity and healthcare, basing our understanding and policies on factual, evidence-based information is crucial, especially in the upcoming election. This approach ensures that candidates and voters alike are informed by accurate data, leading to policies that protect the rights and health of transgender youth. The study published in JAMA provides vital insights into the reality of gender-affirming surgeries among minors, debunking myths of widespread, inappropriate procedures and highlighting the medically necessary nature of these surgeries. Making informed decisions rooted in truth will help ensure that all individuals, particularly transgender youth, can access the care they need to lead healthy and authentic lives.
