Karachi: Gender diversity is best way to break stereotypes and build more understanding of global cultures. Family Medicine department of Ziauddin University held panel discussion ‘Gender Diversity and Awareness in Youth’.

Purpose of discussing gender diversity and awareness among youth is to educate young people about various gender identities and expressions that exist and to promote acceptance and inclusion of all individuals, regardless of their gender. Additionally, discussions on gender diversity can help to raise awareness of challenges and discrimination that individuals who are transgender or gender non-conforming may face and can provide information on how to be an ally and support these individuals.

 Panelists, who were experts in different fields shared their insights on gender incongruence and gender dysphoria. Dr. Fatima Jehangir, moderated discussion and interviewed panelists. Professor Tasnim Ahsan, an endocrinologist, discussed hormonal treatments and their side effects. Psychiatrist Dr. Faisal Mamsa talked about psychological trauma that patients with gender dysphoria experience and how it is treated. Urologist Dr. Ahmed Fawad gave his expert opinion on surgical interventions and current state of issue in Pakistan and around world. Dr. Zil-e-Rubab discussed genetic basis of issue and differences between male and female brains. Dr. Qudsia Hasan spoke about ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence and non-maleficence in relation to gender dysphoria. Lawyer Syed Muaz Shah covered legal aspects of managing these issues and pointed out flaws in ‘Transgender Act of Pakistan.’

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 15 2022

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