Growth Guidelines
It is good practice to record height and weight in the first two years using the Down syndrome specific charts. Thereafter measurements should be made at least annually throughout childhood and at regular intervals in adult life. Regular measurements of this sort are likely to be sensitive early indicators of some of the medical problems which are more common in children and adults with Down syndrome.- Thyroid function should always be checked in those with sudden weight gain and reduced growth.
- Coeliac disease screen may be required for those with reduced growth
- Overweight and obesity causes additional health problems. Parents are responsible to make sure that their children exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
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The reference values for weight should not be used as a standard that children should aim to achieve as many of the children who took part in the study to develop these growth charts were overweight and this is reflected in the charts. It is important to compare the child’s weight against the general population weight for age chart in relation to their height difference. Body Mass Index (BMI) data is included on the charts to aid the assessment of overweight.