Ongoing study - In recent years, the use of hormone blockers in teenagers with gender dysphoria has sparked an intense public debate, both in Belgium and internationally. This has resulted in widely divergent views and interpretations regarding the currently available evidence, particularly with regard to clinical efficacy, (long-term) safety, bone health, mental health, etc.
In accordance with the federal coalition agreement, KCE has been tasked with conducting ‘a study on the use of hormone blockers in young people with gender dysphoria, based on scientific evidence’. This study is an important first step towards informing future policies in this area. A current and methodologically sound analysis of the available evidence can help to correctly interpret clinical practice in Belgium, clarify uncertainties and base possible policy choices on the best available scientific data.
This research project comprises three parts: a systematic review of the scientific literature on the efficacy and safety of puberty blockers, an analysis of the use of this class of medicines in Belgium, and an international comparison of practices in Europe.
Results are expected by June 2027.
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