Challenges in the Diagnosis and Management of Growth Hormone Deficiency in India

Mathew John1, Ekaterina Koledova2, Kanakatte Mylariah Prasanna Kumar3

  • 1Providence Endocrine and Diabetes Specialty Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.

Insights

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) affects many Indian children with short stature (SS). Addressing diagnostic and treatment challenges through education, improved monitoring, and accessible therapies is crucial for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Growth Disorders
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Short stature (SS) affects approximately 150,000 children annually in India.
  • Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a primary endocrine and treatable cause of SS.
  • Limited data on GHD prevalence in India hinders problem magnitude estimation.

Conclusions:

  • Overcoming GHD diagnostic and treatment hurdles is essential for affected children.
  • Accessible and user-friendly GH therapy delivery systems can improve adherence.
  • A multi-faceted approach involving education, training, and policy is needed to improve GHD care in India.

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