A new medical report says expensive hormone injections do not actually help healthy children grow taller. According to the National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency, these puberty-delaying injections may postpone a girl뭩 first period by about 1.5 years, but offer zero boost to a normal child뭩 final adult height.
The injections, called GnRH analogs, were originally developed to treat precocious puberty, a condition in which children begin puberty much earlier than normal. If left untreated, the condition can affect growth and cause emotional stress. For children diagnosed with precocious puberty, the treatment is considered safe and effective.
However, many parents of healthy children have begun seeking the injections because they hope their children will grow taller. The report found that the number of young patients receiving the treatment surged from about 120,000 in 2020 to nearly 180,000 in 2024.
Health experts urge families to stop subjecting healthy kids to unnecessary medical procedures that provide no physical benefits. Instead, they encourage families to discuss any concerns about growth with qualified doctors before choosing treatment.
J.K. Park Senior Reporter junior/1785987400/1613367801
1. What did local weather officials urge residents to do?
2. When did the intense heat ease briefly in July?
3. What were the daytime high temperatures on July 16?
4. Who is most at risk for heat-related illnesses?
1. How do you usually stay cool during extreme heat?
2. Why is drinking plenty of water important during summer?
3. What indoor activities do you enjoy during hot weather?
4. Have you ever experienced a dangerous heat wave recently?
A new medical report says expensive hormone injections do not actually help healthy children grow taller. According to the National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency, these puberty-delaying injections may postpone a girl뭩 first period by about 1.5 years, but offer zero boost to a normal child뭩 final adult height.
