Achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism).

Achondroplasia Achondroplasia is the most common form of short-limbed dwarfism. It is a chondodystrophy in which the development of cartilage and bone is disturbed. The disorder occurs in approximately one out of every 10,000 births (Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine 1999 page 17). It is found in both males and females of all races. Adult male achondroplastic dwarfs average 51.8 inches in height while females average 48.6 inches (Human Growth Foundation 1975). Its depiction in ancient Egyptian art makes it one of …

…in the United States. There are about 5,000 achondroplastic dwarfs in the United States of America and 65,000 on Earth (Chen and Wertelecki 1995 page 4). If scientists find a way to hold the growth rings in bones open, then they may find a cure. Although there is extensive limb-lengthening surgery and growth hormonal treatment, most dwarfs stay short their entire life. There are groups they can turn to for support such as the Little People of America Organization.