Gender Identity: Scientific Research, Treatment & Education

The Global Population Health Summit (GPHS) which was held at the GENSPECT’s Annual Bigger Picture Conference held in Lisbon – Portugal successfully concluded its 3rd edition after a number of closed sessions held in New York City and Lisbon last year. 

The Bigger Picture Conference served as a comprehensive three-day event, uniting leading experts from diverse fields within the gender discourse. Participants included scientists, researchers, legal professionals, medical practitioners, psychologists, sociologists, educators, feminists, and detransitioners. The conference aimed to critically examine the evidence base for gender medicine while addressing the significant challenges posed by gender identity ideology and its impact on society.

The Global Population Health Summit (GPHS) was held under the theme “Sustaining Population Health through Science, Education, and Family Values,” uniting leading experts to address critical issues related to gender identity and its health implications to support the well-being of those navigating gender identity challenges while fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. The summit emphasized the urgent need to evaluate evidence-based treatment approaches and the potential consequences of swiftly implementing gender-affirmative care for young people.

More than 500 participants, both virtual and in-person, participated at the conference offering a crucial platform for healthcare professionals, researchers, and advocates to share knowledge and strategies aimed at enhancing population health. The event also facilitated valuable discussions that underscored GPHS's commitment to advancing health outcomes and fostering collaboration among attendees.

GENSPECTs’ Conference also featured more than 54 speakers including 8 international key speakers from GPHS and 40 scientific sessions focusing on relevant topics related to transgender and its effect on families and societies. 

Moreover, GPHS session featured Prof. Peter J. Pitts, Stephanie Davies-Arai from Transgender Trend, Natalya Murakhver of Restore Childhood, and psychiatrist Dr. Sven Román will engage in a discussion focusing on the role of parents, evidence-based healthcare, and the influence of education and health policies on families.

The Global Population Health Summit (GPHS)

Speakers at the conference also addressed critical issues surrounding gender identity, mental health practices, and the pivotal role of family in public health. The discussions underscored the challenging experiences faced by individuals whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth. From their side, specialists emphasized the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates scientific research, comprehensive assessments of patient history, and tailored educational initiatives.

The GPHS session highlighted key topics that showcased the expertise and insights of the panelists, including: “Overcoming Gender Identity Challenges through Scientific Based Research, Treatments and Education. Panelists highlighted that effective support requires a multidisciplinary approach, where healthcare professionals, educators, and advocates work collaboratively. This includes not only recognizing the medical aspects of gender identity but also addressing psychological and social dimensions. Participants expressed the need for continued education and training for professionals to better serve and empower individuals facing these challenges”.

Recognizing the crucial importance of the GPHS session at the conference, Professor Peter J. Pitts, the Scientific Chairman of the Global Population Health Summit, and President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, stated: "It is incredibly frustrating that many issues remain unresolved, even as we recognize that science is constantly evolving. 

“When we reject scientific findings simply because we don't like them, we ultimately harm not just ourselves, but also patients. Our focus should be on improving outcomes for children in distress and providing them with the best care possible. 

“We must value traditional homes and the role of parents, emphasizing that there are no easy solutions. Children and teenagers can be challenging to understand and diagnose, and it's not just about prescribing medications. It is about truly understanding who they are as individuals; after all, they are not adults yet. Each child is unique, and we need to approach diagnosis thoughtfully, considering all factors before taking action."

Free expression in mental health practises

Furthermore, the Global Population Health Summit (GPHS) session tackled the critical role of free expression in mental health practices. The speakers highlighted how open dialogue is essential for fostering innovation and protecting human rights within the mental health field. Many professionals voiced concerns about the fear of retribution that can suffocate discussions, limit research opportunities, and hinder the quality of care. There was a strong consensus that policies should be developed to promote constructive dialogue and scientific inquiry, ensuring that the rights of all practitioners and patients are safeguarded. 

Also, the Pannel discussions underscored the necessity of a collaborative approach to tackle societal challenges, promote mental health, and strengthen family dynamics for a healthier future. The GPHS session served as a platform for professionals to share insights, exchange ideas, and committing to ongoing advocacy for a more inclusive and supportive society.

Accredited by the International Congress for Health Specialties (ICHS), GENSPECT’S Conference offered 8 Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, reinforcing its commitment to providing high-quality education and professional development.

Family structures in healthcare

Another key focus of the Conference was the vital role of family structures in promoting health and preventing disease. The Presentations featured at the GENSPECT Conference noted that strong family units are essential for individual and collective well-being, providing support and nurturing throughout the life course. The discussions highlighted that families serve as a crucial entry point for public health interventions, as they can influence health behaviors and outcomes over time. Addressing social determinants of health—such as socioeconomic status, education, and community resources—was identified as critical for reinforcing family structures and enhancing public health outcomes.

The role of external pressure

During the final sessions of the conference, participants highlighted that external pressures, such as societal stigma and economic difficulties, frequently disrupt family stability and health. They emphasized the need for strategies that strengthen family connections and encourage positive health behaviors as vital elements of public health practice. Additionally, in addressing the potential harm caused by the uncritical acceptance of gender identity ideologies, panelists urged a reassessment of current practices to prioritize patient safety and evidence-based treatment. By prioritizing family dynamics and ensuring evidence-based approaches, communities can enhance resilience and improve overall population health.

The Lisbon 2024 Declaration for Sustainable Population Health

The Global Population Health Summit - GPHS has established itself as a vital forum for addressing contemporary challenges in population health. The GPHS session at the GENSPECT Conference succeeded in highlighting its views on the complexities surrounding gender identity and advocating for evidence-based approaches, while fostering a more inclusive and effective healthcare framework through their valuable participation at the Genspect’s Bigger Picture Conference.

For more information about the GENSPECT LISBON CONFERENCE please follow the link: https://genspect.org/the-bigger-picture-lisbon/  

For more information about the Global Population Health Summit and to access the Lisbon 2024 Declaration for Sustainable Population Health, please visit: https://globalpopulationhealth.com/ 

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