Dwarfism is a genetic condition in which a person, animal or plant is much below the ordinary size of the species.
There are many causes of dwarfism in humans, Achondroplasia (one of over 500 skeletal dysplasias) is the most frequently diagnosed.
Approximately 1 in 40,000 children are affected, and there seems to be no gender bias.
Acceptable terms for referring to a person born with dwarfism include: dwarf, little person (oppose big person) and short-statured. Terms like midget, shrimp, etc., are very offensive and outdated.
