1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

Kansas’ recently enacted law banning gender-affirming care for transgender minors should be repealed. This decision not only infringes upon the rights of transgender youth but also contradicts established medical consensus that gender-affirming care significantly improves mental health outcomes and reduces rates of suicide and depression. Below are some crucial reasons why gender affirming care should be restored: * Focus on Well-being and Quality of Life: Gender-affirming care aims to alleviate the distress and discomfort that gender dysphoria can cause, allowing young people to live more authentically and participate fully in their lives. This improves their overall quality of life and allows them to thrive. * Improved Mental Health and Reduced Suicide Risk: Numerous studies have demonstrated that access to gender-affirming care significantly reduces rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among transgender youth. Providing timely and appropriate care can be life-saving. * Affirming Identities is Crucial for Development: Allowing transgender and gender diverse youth to access the care that affirms their gender identity is essential for their healthy social, emotional, and psychological development. Denying this care can lead to significant distress, isolation, and a diminished sense of self-worth. * Established Medical Consensus: Major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, and the American Psychological Association, recognize gender-affirming care as safe and effective. These organizations base their recommendations on extensive research and clinical experience. * Individualized and Comprehensive Care: Gender-affirming care is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It involves a multidisciplinary team of medical and mental health professionals who work closely with young people and their families to develop individualized care plans. * Puberty Blockers are Reversible: It is important to understand that puberty blockers are a reversible medical intervention that can provide young people with the time and space to further explore their gender identity without undergoing irreversible changes associated with puberty. If a young person discontinues puberty blockers, their body will resume its natural puberty. Transgender youth deserve access to the healthcare they require without being subjected to discriminatory political interference. I urge you to prioritize the health and well-being of these vulnerable young people and repeal this legislation. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.