Epidemiology of growth hormone deficiency in children and adolescents: a systematic review

Chiara Mameli1,2, Liliana Guadagni3, Massimiliano Orso4

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy.

Endocrine
|March 18, 2024
PubMed

Insights

This systematic review found that pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD) prevalence varies widely, with most studies focusing on European populations. More international research is needed to understand global GHD epidemiology for better resource allocation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a primary cause of short stature in children.
  • Accurate epidemiological data is crucial for understanding GHD's global burden and informing healthcare resource allocation.

Approach:

  • A systematic review of epidemiological studies on pediatric GHD was conducted.
  • Searches were performed across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science up to July 2023.
  • Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers.

Key Points:

  • Nine epidemiological studies published between 1974 and 2022 were included.
  • Prevalence estimates ranged from 1/1107 to 1/8,646, with incidence rates varying from 1/28,800 to 1/46,700 annually.
  • Significant heterogeneity was observed in study populations, diagnostic criteria, and GHD etiology.

Conclusions:

  • Current epidemiological estimates for pediatric GHD are largely based on European data and cannot be generalized globally.
  • International multicenter studies are essential to compare GHD epidemiology across diverse ethnic groups.
  • Precise GHD data is vital for effective resource allocation, especially considering the cost of human recombinant growth hormone therapy.
Abstract

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