Know what is achondroplasia, why due to this the development of bones stops, height also remains short…

New Delhi:- International Dwarfism Awareness Day is celebrated on 25 October. On this day people are made aware about achondroplasia. Achondroplasia is a bone development disorder that causes dwarfism. Dwarfism or short stature is caused by a genetic or medical condition.

Achondroplasia, meaning no cartilage formation, occurs in one in every 15,000 to one in 40,000 live births. People who have this condition are called dwarfs, which is why this condition is also called dwarfism. However, people who are short in stature find the word dwarf derogatory. In 2015, Little People of America (LPA) issued a statement calling for the term to be abolished. They feel that referring to short people is a derogatory slur.

types of dwarfism

There are two main types of this condition
proportional and disproportionate
Proportional Dwarfism:- When the head, torso and limbs are all in proportion to each other, but are much smaller than that of an average sized person, the condition is called proportional dwarfism. This type of dwarfism is often the result of hormone deficiency.
Disproportionate dwarfism:- This is the most common type of dwarfism. As the name suggests, its specialty is that the body parts are disproportionate to each other.

Dwarfism is characterized by having small arms and legs compared to the head and torso. Large head, weak muscle tone, sleep apnea, and spinal stenosis are also sometimes present. The average height of men suffering from dwarfism is 4 feet, 4 inches. The average height of women suffering from dwarfism is 4 feet, 1 inch. Most people with dwarfism have a final height of 4 feet 10 inches or less.

While some younger people still face physical and social barriers, many lead satisfied and active lives. Many people with dwarfism go on to drive, complete their education, get married and even have children of their own. There are many famous people suffering from dwarfism. These famous people include actors, entertainers, comedians, musicians, athletes and politicians.

In 1957, actor Billy Barty and some of his friends founded the Little People of America. Today, this organization has 6500 members across America. In 2012, the LPA wanted to honor Billy Barty, so they created International Dwarfism Awareness Day. He chose the date of October 25 because this is the date of birth of Billy Barty, born in 1924. This is why the month of October is also National Dwarfism Awareness Month.

The best way to participate in Dwarfism Awareness Day is to learn more about achondroplasia. You can also organize a special event to help raise awareness about dwarfism. If you know someone affected by dwarfism, let them know that you want to celebrate this day with them.

Post Views: 140