Optimizing Patient Management and Adherence for Children Receiving Growth Hormone

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Growth Hormone Therapy
• Patient Adherence

Background:

• Poor adherence to growth hormone (GH) therapy is linked to negative clinical outcomes in children, affecting linear growth and quality of life.
• The "360° GH in Europe" meeting focused on GH diseases, with a session dedicated to optimizing patient management and adherence.
• Understanding factors influencing GH therapy response and adherence is crucial for effective pediatric treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review determinants of GH therapy response and factors affecting adherence in children.
• To explore innovative technologies aimed at improving GH treatment and patient adherence.
• To summarize proceedings from a key session on optimizing GH therapy management.

Main Methods:

• Summary of presentations and discussions from the "Optimizing Patient Management" session of the "360° GH in Europe" meeting.
• Review of existing literature on GH therapy response, adherence factors, and technological advancements.
• Expert insights from guest speakers on challenges and solutions in GH therapy.

Main Results:

• GH therapy response varies significantly based on diagnosis, with no clear consensus on defining a "poor response."
• Adherence is influenced by multiple factors, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals.
• New electronic injection devices show potential for maintaining adherence through automated monitoring, though acceptance requires further assessment.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing GH therapy requires addressing adherence through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategy.
• Innovative technologies, particularly electronic injection devices, may improve adherence and patient outcomes.
• Continued innovation and assessment of novel devices are essential for advancing GH treatment in children.