Watch the smallest people in the world
- 1969
- 1 Season
The Smallest People in the World is a show from Channel 4 that explores the lives of individuals with a rare medical condition known as primordial dwarfism. This condition affects less than 100 people globally, and those who suffer from it experience stunted growth, resulting in a much smaller stature than the average person.
The show introduces viewers to a handful of these individuals, each with their own unique story and experiences. The first episode focuses on two families - the Deans and the Clarks - who have children with primordial dwarfism. In both cases, the parents are of average height, and it was only when their children were born that they discovered their condition.
The show examines how these families navigate the challenges of raising children with such a rare condition. For example, the Clarks have had to modify their home to make it safe for their son, who is just 30 inches tall and weighs only 15 pounds. They have also had to deal with people's stares and sometimes insensitive comments.
The show also explores how the individuals with primordial dwarfism feel about their condition. One participant, Amber, talks about how she has learned to embrace her small stature and use it to her advantage. She is an accomplished gymnast and has even performed on Broadway as part of the cast of Matilda the Musical.
The show delves into the medical side of the condition as well. Viewers get to see the various tests and exams that the participants undergo to monitor their health, as well as the challenges they face when it comes to getting appropriate medical care. Some participants talk about how they have been dismissed by doctors who are unfamiliar with their condition, highlighting the need for more awareness and education among medical professionals.
Overall, The Smallest People in the World offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of individuals with primordial dwarfism, highlighting both the challenges they face and the ways in which they have learned to thrive despite their condition. It raises important questions about disability, inclusion, and the need for greater understanding and support for those with rare medical conditions.