As parents, we naturally worry about our children's growth. Whether it's concerns about being too short, overweight, or underweight, we want the best for them. Take, for example, the recent World Cup triumph of Argentina's star player, Messi. Did you know that during his childhood, he was diagnosed with "dwarfism" or growth hormone deficiency (GHD), requiring nightly injections of growth hormones? In this article, we explore the various factors that influence a child's height, as shared by Dr. Tsui Tsz Kwan, a pediatric specialist.

Is Being Short the Result of GHD?

Did you know that the pituitary gland in our brain secretes growth hormones, which are crucial for healthy childhood development and growth? These hormones continuously regulate various physiological and metabolic processes at different stages of our lives. GHD is not a common condition, but if left untreated, it can lead to short stature, weak bones, and poor physical performance. Research data suggests that approximately one person out of every 4,000 to 10,000 individuals suffers from GHD, resulting in short stature. Children with GHD may also have distinct facial features compared to their peers and tend to have higher body fat, especially around the abdomen. Fortunately, their intelligence remains unaffected.

Understanding Growth Patterns: Exploring the Key Factors Affecting Children's Height and Body Shape

The reasons behind short stature in children are diverse, typically categorized as non-pathological or pathological factors. Non-pathological factors include genetic influences, slower individual maturation, delayed development, and unexplained short stature. On the other hand, pathological factors encompass low birth weight, malnutrition, chronic illnesses like kidney disease, genetic or chromosomal variations, and even endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism or GHD.

The Growth Chart serves as an objective indicator for evaluating a child's growth and development. It provides a percentile graph based on factors such as gender, age, weight, and height. Typically, a baby's growth falls within the range of the 3rd and 97th percentiles on the chart, considered within the normal range. However, if a child's growth consistently deviates or excessively veers away from their previous growth percentiles, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician promptly for further evaluation and understanding.

When doctors assess whether a child is affected by stunted growth, they often refer to the Growth Chart. If a child's height falls within or below the 3rd percentile on the growth chart, they may be diagnosed with stunted growth.

One of the contributing factors to stunted growth is being born Small for Gestational Age (SGA). This term refers to infants who have a birth weight below the 10th percentile for their gestational age. It is one of the causes of short stature in children.

Stunted Growth: Diagnosis and Treatment Options

When it comes to diagnosing stunted growth, doctors conduct a comprehensive examination of the child, taking into account their medical history and family health background. Based on each child's unique circumstances, additional tests such as blood tests, X-rays, and even brain imaging scans may be arranged. The goal is to uncover the underlying causes behind their short stature.

If parents are concerned about their child's height, it is recommended to have regular height measurements every 4-6 months. Typically, children between the ages of 4 and 10, before the onset of puberty, can grow around 4-6cm per year. If parents notice that their child is shorter than their peers or their growth rate is slower, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician for an early evaluation.

The treatment for stunted growth varies depending on the underlying causes. If it is due to factors such as poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle habits, or medication, emphasis should be placed on maintaining a balanced diet, adequate rest, and regular exercise. Additionally, medication adjustments may be considered. If the cause is an endocrine imbalance or insufficient thyroid function, restoring thyroid levels can restore normal growth. Similarly, if GHD is identified, receiving growth hormone therapy often yields significant results in height gain.

Considerations for Administering Growth Hormone to Children

If you are considering growth hormone therapy for your child, it's important to be aware of certain considerations. The cost of growth hormone therapy depends on the required dosage for your child.

In children with appropriate indications for stunted growth, growth hormone therapy is most effective when administered before the onset of puberty. Starting treatment early yields better results. As for the duration of therapy, doctors typically recommend discontinuing the use of growth hormone after the completion of puberty, once the growth plates have closed.

While growth hormone injections have the potential to help children increase their height, it is crucial to ensure they also have a well-balanced diet, engage in appropriate physical activity, and get sufficient rest.