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The diagnosis of faltering growth requires a careful assessment of growth parameters (weight, length/height, and head circumference) - over time.
The condition requires comprehensive medical and psychosocial evaluation, including an evaluation of home and family conditions, food security and the availability of food, family routines and the regularity of meals, and meals served in a nurturant context as well as children’s participation and involvement.
Extensive medical tests are, however, generally not indicated. Rather, one should be guided by the history or examination.
Interdisciplinary collaboration, involving medical professionals, psychologists, nutritionists, and social workers, with other specialists as needed is recommended.
Hospitalisation should be reserved for severe or recalcitrant cases.
Growth faltering is often a major concern for families regardless of the aetiology and can cause stress, anxiety, and carer-child conflict, even in the presence of an organic aetiology.
Growth faltering can occur at all socio-economic levels. Occurrence may be highest among children from low-income families and families with multiple risk factors.
