Developmental risk factors in Vietnamese preschool-age children: Cross-sectional survey

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Early childhood development (ECD) is crucial for lifelong learning, academic success, economic productivity, and social well-being.
• While some risk factors for developmental delays are known, a comprehensive understanding requires examining sociodemographic, nutritional, and psychosocial influences.
• This study specifically investigated factors impacting ECD among preschoolers in Vietnam.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors associated with early childhood development (ECD) in Vietnamese preschoolers.
• To provide evidence for targeted interventions to support optimal child development in Vietnam.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the 2011 Vietnam Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS).
• Employed Early Childhood Development Index (ECDI) questionnaires administered to mothers of children aged 36-59 months (n=1459).
• Analysis involved descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression.

Main Results:

• 17.2% of Vietnamese children aged 36-59 months did not meet developmental milestones.
• Positive associations with normal ECD trajectory were found for breastfeeding, preschool attendance, belonging to a major ethnic group, higher maternal education, and frequent learning activities with relatives.
• Conversely, physical punishment and stunting were significantly associated with a lower likelihood of on-track ECD.

Conclusions:

• Significant risk factors for delayed ECD in Vietnam include low maternal education, minority ethnicity, lack of preschool attendance, limited engagement in learning activities by relatives, physical punishment, insufficient breastfeeding, and stunting.
• These findings highlight the need for multifaceted interventions addressing socioeconomic, educational, and health factors to promote early childhood development.