May 5, 2025
A statement by the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine
SAHM is deeply concerned by the recent report issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on May 1, 2025, titled “Treatment for Pediatric Gender Dysphoria.” A report of this significance requires rigorous scientific review and transparency, including clear authorship, none of which were present in this publication. Notably, the report states it is “not intended to serve as a clinical practice guideline,” yet it presents conclusions that may influence policy, practice, and public perception and worsen health disparities and developmental risks to gender-diverse youth.
Adolescents and young adults experiencing gender dysphoria, or who are transgender or gender diverse, deserve health care rooted in science, compassion, and respect. Gender affirming care should be individualized and decided by medical teams, patients, and their families based on the best available science and their developmental needs.
SAHM reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of transgender and gender diverse adolescents and young adults. In this time of uncertainty, we find strength in our shared mission to promote the optimal health and well-being of all adolescents and young adults. We do so by supporting professionals in adolescent health and medicine through excellence in clinical care, research, advocacy, and education. We stand firmly in support of access to high-quality, evidence-based care that meets the unique needs of every young person.