Gender Dysphoria Statistics 2024
Gender dysphoria, a condition where an individual experiences distress due to a misalignment between their gender identity and the gender assigned at birth, has seen a significant increase in diagnoses and treatment over recent years. Understanding the latest statistics can provide insight into the prevalence and the evolving approaches to managing this condition.
Prevalence of Gender Dysphoria
Recent data indicate that the number of young individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria has been rising sharply. From 2017 to 2021, approximately 121,882 children aged 6 to 17 were diagnosed with gender dysphoria in the United States. This figure includes about 42,000 diagnoses in 2021 alone, which is nearly triple the number reported in 2017 (Reuters).
Gender-Affirming Treatments
Puberty Blockers and Hormone Therapy
The use of puberty blockers and hormone therapy among adolescents has also increased. Between 2017 and 2021, around 4,780 adolescents began puberty blockers, and about 14,726 started hormone treatments following a gender dysphoria diagnosis. These treatments aim to delay the physical changes of puberty or to induce changes that align with the individual's gender identity (Reuters).
Puberty blockers, while effective in halting unwanted physical development, come with potential side effects, including impacts on bone density and future fertility. Hormone treatments, such as testosterone for those assigned female at birth and estrogen for those assigned male, induce secondary sex characteristics that align with the individual's gender identity but also carry risks like cardiovascular issues and long-term health impacts (BMJ) (BioMed Central).
Surgical Interventions
Surgical interventions for minors are less common but are performed in certain cases. From 2019 to 2021, there were at least 56 genital surgeries and 776 mastectomies among adolescents aged 13 to 17 with a prior gender dysphoria diagnosis. These procedures are generally considered only after extensive evaluation and usually require parental consent (Reuters).
Mental Health and Suicidality
Gender dysphoria is closely linked with mental health challenges, including higher rates of suicidality and self-harm. Studies have shown that adolescents and young adults with gender dysphoria have significantly higher rates of suicidal ideation and behavior compared to their cisgender peers. This underscores the importance of comprehensive mental health support alongside medical interventions (BioMed Central).
Conclusion: Evolving Understanding and Support
The increasing diagnosis and treatment of gender dysphoria reflect a growing recognition and acceptance of diverse gender identities. However, it also highlights the need for comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and mental health aspects of gender dysphoria.
At Moriel Mental Health, we are dedicated to providing supportive and informed care for individuals with gender dysphoria. If you’d like to discuss anything in this article with a professional, please contact us to book an appointment. We work all throughout California and are here to support you on your journey towards understanding and acceptance.
