Puberty blockers for individuals under 18 with gender dysphoria have been banned indefinitely in the UK after independent medical professionals raised concerns about safety risks and a lack of evidence supporting their use. The decision extends emergency measures already restricting the sale and supply of these drugs outside of clinical trials.

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Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, explained the decision was grounded in evidence rather than political pressure. Both reviews identified significant safety concerns and insufficient data supporting the use of puberty blockers in treating gender dysphoria in young people.

“We need to act with caution and care when it comes to this vulnerable group of young people and follow the expert advice," Mr. Streeting stated.

The government also announced plans to initiate clinical trials on puberty blockers next year to build a clear evidence base. Alongside this, NHS England is working to establish new gender identity services following the closure of the Tavistock Centre, which faced criticism for its handling of gender dysphoria cases.

Addressing the impact of the decision on young transgender people, Mr. Streeting spoke about the challenges faced by this group. Drawing from his personal experience coming out as gay, he said:

"I know it's not easy being a trans kid in our country today. The trans community is at the wrong end of all of the statistics for mental ill health, self-harm, and suicide. While it may not feel like it, I truly care about this issue, and so does this government. I am determined to improve the quality of care and access to healthcare for all trans people.”

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