ESPE Abstracts

Background: Prediction models demonstrate potential in predicting growth in patients receiving recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) for growth disorders. However, considerable information from patients is needed to calculate a predicted growth curve. The curve matching technique only requires height data. This technique identifies growth curves that are similar (matched) among real-world patients within a database. The growth curves of these ‘matched...

Background: A growth prediction model would not only allow patients with growth disorders the opportunity to see the expected effect of their recombinant human growth hormone (r hGH) treatment, but also support healthcare professionals to individualise treatment to optimise growth outcomes.Aim: To develop a growth prediction model in children with growth disorders.Patients and Methods: Height and c...

Background: Treatment for growth disorders requires daily injections of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) over multiple years, and automated devices may help in this regard. The ability to adjust injection device settings, which are pre-set as default unless changed by healthcare professionals, may improve patient comfort and needle anxiety and thereby improve adherence.Aim: To study the association between inject...

Background: For early identification of patients requiring adherence support, objective, real-time adherence data are needed. The easypod™ electromechanical injection device, in combination with the easypod™ connect ecosystem, electronically records and transmits, in real time, accurate records of the date, time and dose injected for patients receiving recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) to treat growth disorders. Healthcare professionals can us...

Background: Digital health solutions, such as the Growzen™ buddy smartphone application (app), can facilitate adherence to recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment for patients with growth disorders. The app alerts patients when it’s time for an injection and allows patients and their caregivers to self-monitor growth, to build a routine and improve adherence. The app also contains educational resources to empower patients to be active in...

Background: The new preventive child health care guideline for referral of short/tall children facilitates early detection of growth disorders. Understanding the impact of early treatment initiation on recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) adherence and catch-up growth can support the use of the guideline.Aim: To evaluate the impact of age at rhGH treatment start on adherence (≥85% vs <85% of prescribed doses...