Dr Hilary Cass speaks about the publication of The Cass Review - full interview

Hilary Cass discusses an independent review on improving services for children with gender dysphoria. The review highlights changes in the population, challenges in service provision, and the lack of a strong evidence base. Recommendations include moving services to pediatric settings and improving evidence through research. The review also addresses social transitioning and the need for a holistic approach. Cass reflects on the polarized debate and emphasizes the importance of informed discussion.

What significant change in the population of young people with gender dysphoria is highlighted in the review?

• Decrease in overall numbers

• Predominance of birth registered girls in early teens

• Increase in birth registered boys

• Stable numbers over the years

What was a major finding from the University of York's systematic reviews?

• High satisfaction among young people

• Comprehensive international guidelines

• Disappointing lack of evidence

• Strong evidence supporting current practices

What is a key recommendation for improving services for young people with gender dysphoria?

• Reducing the number of professionals involved

• Moving services to a pediatric setting

• Focusing solely on gender concerns

• Ignoring mental health issues

What challenge is faced by children due to the lack of research and marginalization from local services?

• Immediate access to services

• Short waiting times

• Long waiting times and inadequate support

• Excessive research funding

What is meant by 'partial social transitioning' for children?

• Transitioning only during holidays

• Transitioning in some environments but not others

• Complete transition at home and school

• No transition at all

What is the report's stance on the impact of social transitioning on mental health?

• Positive impact

• Negative impact

• No significant impact

• Unknown impact

What is a major goal of the report in terms of the ongoing debate?

• Focus solely on adult services

• Ignore international perspectives

• Generate discussion

• Increase polarization

What is a key recommendation for young adults transitioning from children's services?

• Follow-through services for continuity

• Immediate cessation of care

• Focus only on medical pathways

• Disregard for holistic care

What is emphasized as crucial for young people making treatment decisions?

• Relying on anecdotal evidence

• Focusing only on short-term outcomes

• Improving the evidence base

• Ignoring psychological therapies

What is a significant challenge in the debate on gender dysphoria services?

• Lack of public interest

• Uniform agreement among professionals

• Toxicity and polarization

• Excessive funding