Small for Gestational Age (SGA) & Catch-Up Growth
What is SGA?
SGA means a baby was born smaller than 90% of other babies of the same gestational age (weeks of pregnancy).
What is Catch-Up Growth?
Most SGA babies (about 90%) undergo a period of rapid growth in the first 2 years of life and reach a normal height.
When to see an Endocrinologist:
If an SGA child has not caught up by age 2 to 4, they may remain short permanently without help.
Treatment:
The FDA has approved Growth Hormone Therapy for SGA children who have not caught up by age 2-4.
- Goal: To help them reach a normal adult height and improve body composition (muscle vs. fat).
- Metabolic Health: SGA children are at higher risk for Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome later in life. Healthy diet and exercise are crucial from a young age.
Resources:
- MAGIC Foundation: www.magicfoundation.org