New study finds Canadian trans youth rarely detransition

A group of Canadian researchers found that 97 percent of youth who seek treatment for gender dysphoria still identify as trans years later

A new study is painting a picture of what gender-affirming care looks like for trans and gender-diverse youth across Canada. 

The study, published this month in the Journal of Adolescent Health, was conducted by a group of researchers from a bunch of Canadian universities and health institutions, including the University of British Columbia, Dalhousie University, the University of Calgary and Vancouver General Hospital. 

The goal of the study was to “determine the proportions of adolescents continuing with their gender identity after referral to specialized gender clinics, the proportion continuing with gender-affirming hormones, and the proportion who detransition.” 

Researchers looked at 445 youth diagnosed with gender dysphoria who were seen at four youth gender clinics across Canada between 2012 and 2017. This study adds to a massive pile of research from around the world demonstrating the value of gender-affirming care to youth, and the relatively low detransition and regret rates. 

We break down what you need to know.

Senior editor Mel Woods is an English-speaking Vancouver-based writer, editor and audio producer and a former associate editor with HuffPost Canada. A proud prairie queer and ranch dressing expert, their work has also appeared in Vice, Slate, the Tyee, the CBC, the Globe and Mail and the Walrus.

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