The Short Child: A Parents' Guide to the Causes, Consequences, and Treatment of Growth Problems

The Short Child: A Parents' Guide To The Causes, Consequences, And Treatment Of Growth Problems by Paul Kaplowitz MD, Ph D (Chief Of Endocrinology, Children's National Medical Center). & Jeffrey Baron MD (Pediatric Endocrinologist) is a straightforward guide written especially for parents, guardians, and lay readers about growth problems in children as a medical issue and the options for treating it. Chapters discuss how genetics, nutrition, and hormones affect growth; the physical and psychological impact of short stature; controversy over the use of growth hormones; and the pros and cons of various available treatments as well as how specialists determine whether treatment is a preferred option. Detailed and offering examples as well as charts and graphs to clarify its principles, The Short Child is highly readable and a "must-have" for any parent wrestling with what, if anything, to do for a child who may or may not be too small.

As the parent of a child who falls below the third percentile in both height and weight, I found this book enormously helpful and informative. Drs. Kaplowitz and Baron--both pediatric endocrinologists--have written an easily accessible reference guide for anyone who is concerned with their child's height (and 5% of children under the age of 14 fall below the normal range on the growth charts). Early chapters discuss normal growth patterns and explore how genetics, hormones, and nutrition play a part in the growth process. All of this potentially overwhelming information is presented in an easy-to-understand and straightforward style that is refreshing compared to the medical-speak that so many books of this genre seem to fall victim to. Each chapter seems to naturally flow into the next without being stilted or stuffy, and ends with a succinct "key points to keep in mind" section that is extremely efficient at reviewing the information provided. Later chapters cover topics such as the multitude of causes of short stature, the social and psychological impact of short stature on children, and various treatments that are available today. The use of growth hormones is touched upon in an unbiased and informative manner, giving parents a brief overview of the effectiveness, costs and potential risks of this controversial topic. Also included are instructions for properly measuring your child, and plotting height and weight on growth charts. After reading this, parents should feel more confident in approaching their own healthcare providers with questions and concerns specific to their situation--and to come back to this book repeatedly for guidance and information. The Short Child is a reassuring and instructive guide that covers a sensitive topic affecting millions of families. Drs Kaplowitz and Baron write with an ease that comes from in-depth knowledge of their topic. Armchair Interviews says: Parents can reap the benefits of having such expertise at their fingertips, day or night, no appointment necessary, by reading this informative book.