Dear [MP's Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my concerns regarding the Cass Review and its implications for transgender and gender-diverse young people in the UK. While the review aimed to improve care for this vulnerable group, several evidence-based objections have been raised that warrant your attention.
Firstly, the Cass Review recommended that puberty blockers should only be used under research conditions. However, the subsequent decision by NHS England to ban the use of puberty blockers altogether goes beyond the review's recommendations
(https://www.bma.org.uk/news-and-opinion/bma-to-undertake-evidence-led-evaluation-of-the-cass-review?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1")
This decision has left many young people without access to potentially beneficial treatments, exacerbating their distress and undermining their well-being.
Secondly, the review has been criticized for its methodological weaknesses and exclusion of trans-affirming evidence
(https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/health/2024/07/why-are-british-doctors-voting-to-reject-the-cass-report?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "2").
The British Medical Association (BMA) has raised concerns about the rapid and selective implementation of the review's recommendations, calling for a transparent, evidence-led
(https://www.bma.org.uk/news-and-opinion/bma-to-undertake-evidence-led-evaluation-of-the-cass-review?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1").
This selective approach risks compromising the quality of care provided to transgender and gender-diverse young people.
Furthermore, the review's recommendations have been based on a weak evidence base for medical endocrine interventions
(https://adc.bmj.com/content/early/2024/10/15/archdischild-2024-327994?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").
Critics argue that the review misrepresents its role and process, comparing it to clinical practice guideline development, which it is not
(https://adc.bmj.com/content/early/2024/10/15/archdischild-2024-327994?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "3").
This misunderstanding jeopardizes the implementation of crucial reforms needed to establish a safer, more holistic, and evidence-based service model for children and young people experiencing gender identity issues.
In light of these concerns, I urge you to advocate for a more balanced and evidence-based approach to transgender healthcare. It is essential that clinicians, patients, and families are at the center of decision-making processes, rather than politicians
(https://www.bma.org.uk/news-and-opinion/bma-to-undertake-evidence-led-evaluation-of-the-cass-review?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 "1").
By doing so, we can ensure that the needs of transgender and gender-diverse young people are met with the care and support they deserve.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]