Failure to thrive is a description applied to children whose current weight or rate of weight gain are significantly below that of other children of similar age and sex. It is a common problem that is often seen in general practice. Medical and social factors may both contribute to the condition. These range from paediatric disorders such as coeliac disease to childhood neglect. Early diagnosis and intervention are important for preventing malnutrition, as well as mental, emotional and social problems in adulthood.
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