Description

This systematic literature review examined 41 studies to gain a better understanding of the burden of short stature. Short stature poses physical challenges and may result in poorer quality of life (QoL) compared to people with normal stature.

In both children and adults, a psychological burden was observed across different causes of short stature. Data from five studies found that children and adolescents with skeletal dysplasia associated with short stature report lower QoL, especially in physical and social domains. Cognitive function may also be impacted. Specifically, it was noted that children with achondroplasia have significantly lower overall health-related QoL than their peers. Studies exploring the burden on caregivers found that QoL is negatively influenced by concerns and worries about the child.

Further research is needed to extend our understanding of the psychological burden – both in people with stature and their families.

Access via PubMed

EU-ACH-00313