Global developmental delay and its determinants among urban infants and toddlers: a cross sectional study

Sandeep Sachdeva1, Ali Amir, Seema Alam

  • 1JN Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, India. sandeepsemail@rediffmail.com

Insights

Global developmental delay affects 7.1% of children under three. Undernutrition, prematurity, stunting, and maternal illiteracy are key contributing factors, guiding early intervention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Global Health

Background:

  • Global developmental delay (GDD) is a significant concern in early childhood.
  • Identifying prevalence and determinants is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate the prevalence of GDD in children under three years.
  • To investigate biological and environmental factors associated with GDD.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional descriptive study involving 468 children aged 0-3 years.
  • Developmental screening and analysis of biological and environmental factors were conducted.

Main Results:

  • 7.1% of children screened positive for GDD, with the highest prevalence in the 0-12 months age group.
  • Undernutrition and prematurity were the leading etiological diagnoses (21% each).
  • Stunting, maternal illiteracy, prematurity, and a history of seizures were significant predictors.

Conclusions:

  • Specific biological and environmental factors can predict developmental delay.
  • Early identification of these predictors can facilitate appropriate interventions for children.
Abstract

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