China dad’s growth hormone investment for daughter sparks debate over societal pressure

A father in central China, who spends 6,000 yuan (US$880) a month on “growth shots” for his daughter, has ignited a heated online debate regarding height anxiety.According to mainland media outlet Dazhong Daily, the father, surnamed Li, lives in Changsha, Hunan province, and consistently pays for growth hormone injections for his 12-year-old daughter.Before starting the treatment, the girl experienced a growth rate of only two to three centimetres per year. However, with the injections, she reportedly gained four centimetres in just six months.“I have specific expectations for her height,” Li explained, noting that growth tends to slow after puberty.While he has not disclosed a desired height or career aspirations for his daughter, he emphasised that his goal is to boost her confidence and poise.For children, regular exercise, quality sleep, and a balanced diet can help maximise height growth. Photo: ShutterstockLi stated to the media: “Height is irreversible; you only get one chance in life. This is a worthwhile investment.”Her current height remains undisclosed, and she has not made any public comments on the matter.Growth hormone therapy generally lasts between six months and two years, requiring multiple weekly injections tailored to a child’s growth rate and bone age.Demand for this treatment has reportedly surged following its addition to China’s national medical insurance scheme, drastically reducing the cost of long-acting doses from 3,500 yuan (US$520) to 900 yuan.However, medical professionals urge caution.Doctors have stressed that growth shots are strictly controlled prescription medications, intended solely for diagnosed medical conditions and must be administered before the growth plates close, which typically occurs around age 14 for girls and 16 for boys.Growth shots are strictly regulated medical treatments that must be used before growth plates close, typically around age 14 for girls and 16 for boys, after which height growth is no longer possible. Photo: ShutterstockReports indicate that receiving these injections after the closure of growth plates will not increase height and can lead to abnormal bone thickening.Further ReadingAdditionally, doctors warn that using the treatment on healthy children due to parental anxiety poses serious risks, including endocrine disorders, elevated blood sugar levels, thyroid dysfunction, or even premature closure of the growth plates, which could result in permanent stunted growth.A 2020 global survey found that the average height of 19-year-old Chinese males was 175.7 cm, while that of Chinese females was 163.5 cm.Reactions online to the father’s decisions have been sharply polarised.Some praised his commitment; one commenter described Li as a responsible father whose daughter would appreciate his efforts in the future.Many parents view height as an important factor in success, wanting to give their children every possible advantage early on. Photo: ShutterstockAnother remarked that Li showed foresight, arguing that additional height could provide children with a competitive advantage in future job markets and dating scenarios.Conversely, others voiced strong opposition.“Going against nature can easily backfire. A focus on exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep during a child’s growth years remains the best approach,” wrote one netizen.“I think being short has its advantages, such as placing less stress on the heart and making you appear younger,” another added.