UK doctor who led gender healthcare review says children ‘weaponised’ by social media

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by dpaFebruary 15, 2026 at 12:34 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Dr. Hilary Cass, who led the UK's review of NHS gender healthcare for under-18s, stated that social media has "weaponized" and misled young people regarding gender transitioning. Cass's review led to significant changes, including a ban on puberty blockers. While welcoming a recent draft published by the Department for Education, she acknowledged its limitations. Speaking to the BBC, Cass emphasized the need to support the small number of individuals for whom medical transitioning is essential for their well-being. She also noted that "people at the extremes" have caused distress for young people.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Laura Kuenssberg 30% BBC ×240% Department for Education 50% Britain 60% National Health Service (NHS) 70% Hilary Cass ×290%

Keywords

gender healthcare 100% children 80% social media 70% transitioning 70% biological sex 60% puberty blockers 60% nhs 50% hilary cass 50% young people 40%