Recently, the case of a father in Changsha city, Hunan province, spending 6,000 yuan (approximately 21,6 million VND) monthly on growth hormone injections for his 12-year-old daughter has ignited widespread debate on Chinese social media, according to Sina Finance. He stated his motivation was simply wanting his child to be "tall and elegant."
"I have certain standards for my daughter's height," Mr. Ly told the media on July 18. He explained that children typically grow only two to three cm within six months to one year. However, thanks to the growth hormone injections, his daughter grew 4 cm in just 6 months.
He mentioned that after girls begin menstruation, their growth hormone secretion decreases, making height development more challenging. Mr. Ly clarified that the injections are not for his daughter's future career prospects, but purely because he desires her to have a tall stature later in life. "Height is a one-time opportunity in life, and this is a completely worthwhile investment," he stated.
A global survey in 2020 indicated that the average height for 19-year-olds in China was 175,7 cm for males and 163,5 cm for females.
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Illustrative photo: Owen Humphreys/PA |
Growth hormone therapy typically lasts from 6 months to two years, requiring multiple injections weekly depending on the child's growth rate and bone age. Demand for this treatment surged after the new National Health Insurance Drug Catalogue became effective from January 1, which included growth hormone for insurance coverage. As a result, the price of long-acting growth hormone decreased by approximately 75%, from about 3,500 yuan (12,6 million VND) per vial to around 900 yuan.
However, health experts advise caution. Doctors state that growth hormone injections are strictly regulated prescription medications, intended only for cases with a clear medical diagnosis. They must be administered before the growth plates close, which typically occurs at 14 years old for females and 16 for males.
If a child's height is within the normal range but parents opt for treatment due to anxiety, the child may experience dangerous side effects such as endocrine disorders, hyperglycemia, and hypothyroidism. More seriously, this could cause the growth plates to close prematurely, paradoxically limiting the child's height. Therefore, doctors recommend that families considering this treatment take their children to reputable hospitals for a comprehensive physical development assessment and to receive a standard medical regimen under direct medical supervision.
Mr. Ly's decision has generated two opposing views within Chinese social media communities. One side supports him, praising his dedication and considering him a responsible father whose daughter will appreciate this investment in the future. Some even commend his foresight, believing that good height provides a significant competitive advantage for children in education, employment, and finding a partner later in life.
Conversely, the opposing view asserts that going against natural development can lead to negative consequences. They emphasize that regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep are the optimal solutions for a child's development.
Binh Minh (According to SCMP, Sina Finance)
