SEARCH:
Sign in | Join | Help
search Mercola.com
 
FREE Subscription 
The World’s Most Popular Natural Health Newsletter
Share this article
Previous Article
Next Article
No Benefit Seen In Routine Growth Monitoring Of Children
Posted by: Dr. Mercola
May 28 2000 | 971 views

Growth monitoring is an almost universal practice that consists of routine measurements to detect abnormal growth in children, combined with some action when this is detected. It aims to improve nutrition, reduce the risk of death or inadequate nutrition, help educate parents, and lead to early referral for conditions manifest by growth disorders. Much time is invested in this activity, and yet adequate evidence for its benefits and harms is not available.

This study found no difference in nutritional outcomes between children who had undergone growth monitoring versus those who had not. Researchers stated that the policy of routine growth monitoring is based on the yet unproven opinions that it both has worthwhile health benefits and does no harm. The study could find no evidence to support or refute these beliefs, but questions the wisdom of devoting so much time and effort into an intervention with such questionable value.

Arch Dis Child 2000;82:197-201


Dr. Mercola''s Comments
Dr. Mercola's Comments:
Follow me on facebook

Although not seeming to impose any serious consequences, this is another example of a medical intervention which is universally practiced, yet has no proven benefit. Some children who are on the lower end of the 'normal' growth chart may be given growth hormones or other substances to increase their stature and growth. The use of these growth hormones may have long-term adverse effects.

Return To Table of Contents Issue #155




Share this article
Previous Article
Next Article
Comment on This Article Community Comments (0)

 
Share this article
Previous Article
Next Article
 
 
© Copyright 2009 Dr. Joseph Mercola. All Rights Reserved. If you want to use this article on your site please click here. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using this product.