October is Dwarfism Awareness Month. This annual observance was established in 2011 by Little People of America (LPA) to promote positive awareness, address systemic accessibility barriers, challenge societal stereotypes, and celebrate the dwarfism community.
Facts
- Dwarfism occurs in approximately ONE in every 25,000-40,000 births.
- There are around 300 different forms of dwarfism.
- This number increases over the years as medical professionals are identifying unique features that lead to new forms of skeletal dysplasia being recorded.
- Most forms of dwarfism such as Achondroplasia, SED, OI, Pseudoachondroplasia and many others are caused by a genetic mutation. These forms are dominant and can be passed down to future children. Some forms of dwarfism, such as diastrophic dysplasia is recessive and can only be passed down if both parents carry the recessive gene.
- Individuals with dwarfism can have children born with dwarfism and may also have average height children.
- The word “midget” is considered highly offensive and should never be used. The accepted term is little person or person with dwarfism.
- Mostly people like to be called by their names rather than a label just like any of us. A person with dwarfism has so many other parts that make them who they are.
Important Dates & Observances
- October 25:International Dwarfism Awareness Day is celebrated globally. This specific date honors the birthday of Billy Barty, a prominent American actor and the original founder of Little People of America.
- The Theme: For 2026, the LPA's organizational focus shifts from basic "awareness" to proactive advocacy and pride under the guiding community theme: "Don't deny. Embrace."
- Symbolism: The official awareness color for the month is green, often represented by a green ribbon or wristband
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