Tag: Benign familial macrocephaly

Macrocephaly, or a large head circumference, is diagnosed in 2% to 5% of the US population, though it is often a benign condition inherited through family genetics. Understanding **what is considered a big head circumference** involves reviewing standard growth charts to assess head growth relative to age and gender.

According to one U.S. study, the average adult female head circumference is approximately 21.75 inches (55.2 cm), and a significantly larger measurement may be medically defined as macrocephaly, a condition indicating an unusually large head. For most women, a large head is simply a harmless, inherited trait rather than a sign of a health problem.

Genetics is a primary cause of head size variation, much like the size of your feet or the shape of your nose. So, does having a bigger head mean anything significant for your overall health and well-being? The answer depends heavily on the underlying cause and any accompanying symptoms.

According to various studies, the average adult male head circumference is around 22 to 23 inches, while for women it is slightly smaller. Consequently, yes, a 25 inch head is big when compared to these averages, though it is often harmless and can be a family trait.

Approximately 1 in 50 children is affected by macrocephaly, the medical term for an unusually large head. However, it can also manifest or become noticeable in adults. Here, we provide a comprehensive look at **what causes the head to get bigger**, distinguishing between harmless and potentially serious causes.