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Growth, developmental, and behavioral outcomes of HIV-affected preschool children in Thailand

Oranee Sanmaneechai1, Thanyawee Puthanakit, Orawan Louthrenoo

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand. tputhana@mail.med.cmu.ac.th

Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet
|March 8, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Thai preschool children affected by HIV showed no differences in growth or behavior but had lower cognitive function. Low family income and care by relatives were identified risk factors for cognitive deficits.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection can impact child development.
  • Understanding the long-term outcomes for HIV-affected children is crucial for targeted interventions.
  • Preschool-aged children represent a critical developmental window.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess growth, developmental, and behavioral outcomes in Thai preschool children affected by HIV.
  • To compare these outcomes with age-matched healthy controls.
  • To identify potential risk factors associated with cognitive deficits in HIV-affected children.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study conducted at Chiang Mai University Hospital.
  • Involved 30 HIV-affected preschool children (ages 3-5) and 35 age-matched controls.
  • Utilized standardized assessments for growth, behavior (Child Behavioral Checklist), and cognitive functioning (Thai intellectual assessment).

Main Results:

  • No significant differences in growth or behavioral outcomes between HIV-affected and control groups.
  • HIV-affected children demonstrated significantly lower cognitive functioning scores (p = 0.03).
  • Twenty percent of HIV-affected children had below-average IQ (< or = 89) versus 11% in controls.

Conclusions:

  • HIV-affected preschool children in Thailand exhibit cognitive deficits compared to peers.
  • Low caregiver income and non-parental care (relatives) are risk factors for lower IQ.
  • Early intervention programs are recommended to support the cognitive development of these children.

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