FTC examines deceptive practices in gender-affirming care for minors

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated a workshop aimed at exploring the perceived unfair and deceptive trade practices associated with gender-affirming care for minors. This workshop, titled "The Dangers of 'Gender-Affirming Care' for Minors," is held in Washington, DC, and includes testimonies from detransitioners, families affected by these decisions, medical professionals, and ethical experts. The FTC's goal is to assess whether claims made by medical practitioners regarding the benefits and effectiveness of such treatments have substantial evidence or have omitted information about potential risks. The workshop is significant, particularly following an executive order by former President Donald Trump in January, which ceased the federal government's backing of surgeries and hormone treatments for minors as a means of addressing gender dysphoria. This aligns with recent rulings by the Supreme Court that have upheld laws in states, such as Tennessee, banning the use of sex change drugs and procedures for minors. The discourse surrounding "gender-affirming care" is contentious, with criticisms labeling it as a euphemism for surgeries and medications that have severe long-term consequences. Research indicates that these procedures can lead to irreversible physical changes, infertility, and other health concerns such as bone density reduction and growth spurts issues. The scrutiny around gender-affirming care has intensified with high-profile discussions involving major medical organizations and health systems, many of which are reportedly influenced by political agendas. Studies suggesting that a significant number of minors experiencing confusion about their sex tend to outgrow these feelings may prompt further debate on the appropriateness of early interventions. European nations previously supportive of gender transition treatments for minors have begun reversing their stance due to emerging evidence on the potential adverse impacts. As the FTC gathers information, federal investigations are also underway regarding religious exemptions related to gender-affirming care. A notable case involves a physician assistant who alleged wrongful termination for seeking to uphold her religious convictions against providing such care. This inquiry aligns with efforts by the Trump administration to allow healthcare providers to refuse treatment on moral and religious grounds, which has raised questions about the implications for healthcare equality and the rights of both patients and providers.