A 48-year-old member asked:
what are some reasons for short stature other than genetics?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Soumya Adhikarianswered
Pediatric Endocrinology 20 years experience
Any number of things: Genetics is the largest determinant of most people's height. However, nutritional status, and overall well being play significant roles as well. Someone who is significantly shorter than their genetic height prediction should receive an evaluation which might include testing for systemic illnesses (kidney disease, liver disease, etc) along with hormonal issues (thyroid, growth hormone, etc).
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Similar questions
A 37-year-old member asked:
Possible reasons for short stature other than genetics?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Philip Kernanswered
Endocrinology 43 years experience
Nutrition: Poor nutrition, both in terms of total calories and protein, will stunt growth. Every generation of americans are taller than their parents. For the boomers, this was because their parents lived through the depression. Now it is probably over-nutrition that is stimulating more growth (obese kids are often tall, too). Premature puberty will also result in short adult stature.
4.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated May 4, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
$30 per visit with
membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.