Growth Disorders: Gender Inequality Affecting Access to Therapies in Latin America
The growth hormone deficit can affect a child’s health and life if not diagnosed and treated in time. Although there are effective and safe therapies, not all patients receive the same opportunities. A research presented at the Congress of the Latin American Society of Pediatric Endocrinology exposed a worrying reality: Latin American girls have less access to these treatments than boys, with lasting physical and emotional consequences.
## A study with more than 7,000 patients
The analysis included data from 7,770 children and adolescents. The results showed that in 9 of them, the majority of those treated were boys, reaching 80% in Costa Rica and 68% in El Salvador. Only Argentina had an equal distribution. The research used a digital platform to monitor adherence, age of onset, and clinical characteristics, revealing that treatments often start late, around 10 or 11 years old, when ideally they should be diagnosed and addressed early.
## The weight of cultural factors
Specialists agree that male height is perceived as a advantage, leading to faster diagnoses and early therapeutic decisions in boys. In contrast, girls face more delays, even though growth disorders impact both their physical health and their self-esteem and overall development.
## Consequences of a late start
Pediatric endocrinologist Javier Chiarpenello warned that postponing or interrupting therapy can result in lower bone density, predisposition to osteoporosis, and metabolic alterations in young adulthood. He also emphasized that adherence is key: skipping a weekly application can mean up to five centimeters less in final height.
## A safe and effective treatment
Recombinant growth hormone is used in cases of pituitary deficiency, idiopathic short stature, Turner syndrome, or chronic kidney failure, among other conditions. With over forty years of clinical use, its safety and efficacy are widely supported. However, administrative barriers, lack of information, and financial constraints complicate access in several countries.
## Towards equitable access
The Latin American Society of Pediatric Endocrinology called for reducing obstacles and ensuring equality in treatment. Patient organizations, such as the Civil Association Growing in Argentina, emphasize that inequalities not only affect health but also self-esteem and the quality of life of thousands of girls. The challenge, according to experts, is clear: growth cannot be a race with advantages for some and barriers for others.
