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Influence of complex childhood diseases on variation in growth and skeletal development
Author(s) -
Zemel Babette S.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
american journal of human biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.559
H-Index - 81
eISSN - 1520-6300
pISSN - 1042-0533
DOI - 10.1002/ajhb.22985
Subject(s) - malnutrition , disease , cystic fibrosis , medicine , growth retardation , population , malabsorption , biology , pathology , environmental health , endocrinology , genetics , pregnancy
Abstract The study of human growth and skeletal development by human biologists is framed by the larger theoretical concerns regarding the underpinnings of population variation and human evolution. This unique perspective is directly relevant to the assessment of child health and well‐being at the individual and group level, as well as the construction of growth charts. Environmental, behavioral (nutrition and physical activity), and disease‐related factors can prevent attainment of full genetic potential for growth. Undernutrition is most often the cause of growth faltering and poor skeletal development. Disease related factors, such as malabsorption, inflammation, and immobility also have profound effects. These effects will be illustrated with examples from diseases such as cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and Down syndrome. The need for separate growth charts for children with genetic disorders is often controversial because of potential medical and/or nutritional complications associated with some disorders. Children with Alagille syndrome and Down syndrome will be used to illustrate the advantages and limitations of syndrome‐specific charts. This overview of health and disease effects on growth and skeletal development provides insights into the plasticity of human growth and its sensitivity to overall health and well‐being.