Growth Hormone For Short Kids
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Posted by Barbara Pytel Nov 23, 2007 |
1-3 Inches
A growth hormone could increase height by three inches. What are the risks? That data is not available. It is unknown if growth hormone will have an effect later in life. Dr. Jackie R. Bryant, University of Southampton, UK, studied data from 741 children. She concluded that while growth hormones could increase height by 1 to 3 inches, the children would still be shorter than peers.
Did the hormone increase self-esteem? No. This area seems unaffected by the few inches of growth. Quality of life does not seem to be a factor.
Treatment
The growth hormone is administered by injection and requires treatments 6 or 7 times per week for several years. The treatment is also expensive. One has to ask, "Is it worth it to be a few inches taller?"
Society does seem to value height. It is a given that short basketball players will probably sit on the bench quite a bit. Short football players will see less playing time. Will a taller girl ask a shorter boy to the prom?
- short boys are seen as less capable,
- taller men seem to get the better jobs and promotions,
- taller women are selected for models,
- tall athletes make the big money.
But, how much sacrifice would you be willing to make for 1-3 inches?
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Copyright article 2007 Barbara Pytel. All Rights Reserved.