Celebrating World Dwarfism Day

Estimates from Kenya's National Bureau of Statistics indicate that about 3,000 Kenyans are affected by dwarfism.

Every year on October 25, International Dwarfism Awareness Day celebrates little people.

This day also spreads awareness for achondroplasia, a bone growth disorder that causes dwarfism.

Achondroplasia means “without cartilage formation.” It occurs in one in every 15,000 to one in 40,000 live births.

Those who have this condition are called dwarfs, and the condition is also called dwarfism.

Dwarfism is characterized by having short arms and legs in comparison to the head and trunk.

A larger head, weak muscle tone, sleep apnea, and spinal stenosis are also sometimes present.

 The average height of men with dwarfism is 4 feet, 4 inches.

The average height of women with dwarfism is 4 feet, 1 inch.

Most people with dwarfism have a final height of 4 feet 10 inches or less.

While some little people still face physical and social barriers, although many go on to lead fulfilling and active lives

Many with dwarfism drive, complete their education, get married, and even have children of their own.

There are also many famous people with dwarfism in Kenya and around the world.

One of the best ways to participate in Dwarfism Awareness Day is if you know someone affected by dwarfism, tell them you want to celebrate the day with them.

As you celebrate, spread awareness on social media with #InternationalDwarfismAwarenessDay.

Edited by D Tarus