This archive report was first published on 7 June 2020.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, over 3,000 Kenyans suffer from severe dwarfism, while more than 1.2 million children have stunted growth that could lead to dwarfism in adulthood.
For Hussein Kenga, a 48-year-old who was diagnosed with pituitary dwarfism at 32, hormonal therapy brought some relief. However, he recalls the years of ridicule and self-doubt he endured, struggling to access treatment due to its high cost and limited availability in rural areas.
“I was tired of people calling me derogatory names. Having short stature means even children will see you and mock you. It is a very bad feeling,” Kenga says.
Dr. CF Otieno, a lecturer at the University of Nairobi, emphasizes the importance of early intervention in managing dwarfism. He urges parents to monitor their children's growth and seek medical help if they notice any delays or disproportionate body parts.
However, Dr. Angela Migowa, a pediatric rheumatologist at Aga Khan University, highlights the need for better training of nurses at public hospitals to accurately capture data during early stages of life. She also suggests that public awareness can bring about significant changes in how people with short stature are perceived and treated.
For Irene Muoki, who suffers from Diastrophic Dysplasia, a bone disorder, the struggles of living with dwarfism are deeply personal. She recalls the bullying and taunting she faced in school, which led to her dropping out. Even as an adult, she struggles to be treated as an equal.
Joakim Mwangi, founder of the Short Stature Society of Kenya, champions for the rights of people with different health conditions that cause short stature. He emphasizes the need for education and empowerment to address the social and psychological challenges faced by individuals with dwarfism.
