Study shows doctors generally oppose transgender surgeries for minors

A new study released on November 24, 2025, reveals that a strong majority of Florida doctors oppose transgender medical interventions for minors, directly challenging the stances of major medical associations. Conducted by the advocacy group Do No Harm from May 24 to June 2, 2025, the survey polled 736 licensed Florida physicians and 600 voters, finding 66% of doctors support state laws banning puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries for those under 18—mirroring 60% public approval.

Only 11% of physicians somewhat opposed such bans, while 23% strongly opposed them.The poll also highlighted concerns over the sharp rise in gender dysphoria diagnoses among minors, which surged from 15,172 in 2017 to 42,167 in 2021. A total of 64% of doctors viewed this trend as troubling, compared to just 1% who saw it as positive and 35% neutral; public sentiment was slightly less alarmed, with 49% expressing concern.

Experts attribute the increase to potential over-medicalization, exacerbated by interventions whose risks—such as elevated chances of cancer, blood clots, and death—outweigh unproven benefits, according to federal reviews. On related policies, 75% of doctors backed requiring transgender athletes to compete based on their sex assigned at birth, aligning closely with 76% of voters. The survey underscores a growing disconnect between grassroots physicians and organizations like the American Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics, which endorse these treatments despite scant evidence of long-term efficacy.

The findings bolster Florida’s existing protective laws and signal broader implications for national debates, as they reflect public and professional alignment against interventions lacking robust scientific backing. With medical associations facing scrutiny, the study advocates for reforms to excise ideological influences from healthcare training and policy, ensuring decisions prioritize excellence and integrity.