Home / Health / Landmark Study to Explore Intersection of Gender Identity and Neurodiversity
Landmark Study to Explore Intersection of Gender Identity and Neurodiversity
31 Jul
Summary
- Horizon study launching to follow trans children's NHS care and wellbeing
- Aims to understand how gender incongruence varies with neurodivergence, autism, ADHD
- Researchers hope to improve future services and support for trans youth
In July 2025, a groundbreaking new study called Horizon is set to launch, aiming to shed light on the experiences of transgender children in the UK. The observational study will follow trans youth through their normal NHS care, gathering annual data on their wellbeing, mental and physical health, relationships, and gender identity.
One of the key goals of the Horizon study is to understand how the prevalence of gender incongruence—a marked and persistent disconnect between one's experienced gender and assigned sex—varies depending on factors like sex, neurodivergence, autism, and ADHD. Researchers at King's College London, who are leading the study, say they know too little about how different treatments work for their trans patients, and hope this research will help fill that critical evidence gap.
The scientists also aim to compare the results of various treatment approaches while following the children more closely than ever before. They expect the first findings to be published in a couple of years, which could shed light on the demographics and co-occurring conditions of those using NHS gender clinics as children.
