HHS proposes limits on youth gender‑affirming care
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the Trump administration proposed new federal rules on Dec. 18, 2025 to limit gender‑affirming medical care for minors. Because the rules would apply nationwide, they would directly affect Twin Cities providers and families if finalized after the rulemaking process.
📌 Key Facts
- Federal action: HHS proposed rules to restrict gender‑affirming care for minors
- Date: Dec. 18, 2025
- Scope: Nationwide rulemaking that would affect Minnesota patients and providers if finalized
📊 Relevant Data
In 2023, 3.3% of US youth aged 13-17 identify as transgender, approximately 724,000 individuals.
How Many Adults and Youth Identify as Transgender in the United States? — Williams Institute
Transgender and gender-diverse individuals are 3 to 6 times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than cisgender individuals.
Largest study to date confirms overlap between autism and gender diversity — The Transmitter
97% of transgender youth do not regret transitioning, according to a 2024 study.
97% of trans youth don't regret transitioning, new study finds — LGBTQ Nation
Access to gender-affirming care is associated with decreased depression, anxiety, and suicidality among transgender and nonbinary youths over 1 year.
Mental Health Outcomes in Transgender and Nonbinary Youths Receiving Gender-Affirming Care — JAMA Network Open
In recent data, the sex assigned at birth ratio among transgender adolescents shows a shift, with more assigned females at birth seeking transgender care.
Explaining Assigned Sex Ratio Shifts in Trans Children — Julia Serano
A lower proportion of transgender students identified as Black and a higher proportion as White compared to cisgender students.
39% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including 46% of transgender and nonbinary young people.
2024 National Survey on LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health — The Trevor Project
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