Written question asked by Peter Luff (Conservative) on Thursday, 25 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 June 2000. It was answered by Lord Hutton of Furness (Labour) on Monday, 12 June 2000 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what treatment is available on the National Health Service for Laron Dwarfism; and what assistance his Department provides to support groups for children with growth problems as a result of this condition.

Answer: Mr. Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what treatment is available on the National Health Service for Laron Dwarfism; and what assistance his Department provides to support groups for children with growth problems as a result of this condition. [124492] Mr. Hutton: Children with short stature resulting from Laron Dwarfism and other rare conditions are provided diagnostic and follow up care from paediatric endocrinologists who work closely with other specialists. Each region has such a service and for exceptionally rare disorders care can be provided from a national centre. Where growth is limited, psychological and practical support is available through the National Health Service. Voluntary organisations also play a key part in supporting children with growth problems. Although my Department does not at present provide assistance to these organisations, there is provision for them to apply under Section 64 of the Health Services and Public Health Act 1968 for assistance.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 124492; 351 c473-4W
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Disability Children Congenital abnormalities Government assistance Medical treatments Laron dwarfism
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk