20 states accuse leading medical organization of selective science on youth gender transitions

A group of 20 attorneys general are challenging the American Medical Association’s support for puberty blockers for children, arguing that the evidence for these treatments is weak. This comes after the AMA recently came out against gender-related surgeries for children due to a lack of clear evidence.

In a letter penned by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall on behalf of the coalition and sent to AMA CEO Dr. John J. Whyte, the group commended the AMA for agreeing with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons that gender-related surgeries should be deferred to adulthood. However, they raised concerns about the lack of high-quality evidence supporting puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones used to treat gender dysphoria in minors.

The attorneys general cited systematic reviews that found a lack of strong evidence supporting these treatments’ safety and efficacy. They questioned how the AMA could support these interventions for children when they acknowledge the lack of evidence for surgical interventions.

The letter includes a list of questions for the AMA about the safety and efficacy of these treatments. It also asked the AMA to clarify whether it endorses the policy statements and standards of care from organizations that support puberty blockers and hormone therapy for youth.

The attorneys general warned that hormone treatments can have long-term consequences, including sterilization. They raised concerns about the AMA’s stance being inconsistent and suggested that the group could face investigation for violating consumer protection laws.

The AMA was given a deadline to respond to the letter by March 25. Attorney General Marshall emphasized the importance of following scientific evidence when it comes to interventions for children, stating that anything less than full scientific honesty is reckless.

The letter was signed by attorneys general from various states, highlighting a growing concern about the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy in children. The AMA’s position on these treatments is under scrutiny, especially after the recent shift in policy regarding gender-related surgeries.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recently released a policy statement recommending that surgeons delay gender surgeries until patients reach at least 19 years old. This decision was based on a review of the evidence and uncertainties surrounding these interventions in the pediatric population.

The AMA has not yet responded to requests for comment on the letter from the attorneys general. The debate over the use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy in children continues, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for solid scientific evidence to guide treatment decisions.