A community developed conceptual model for reducing long-term health problems in children with intellectual

Manisha Nair1, Mythili Hazarika2, M Thomas Kishore3

  • 1Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.

Insights

Children with intellectual disability (ID) in India face exclusion from health programs. This study developed an inclusive intervention framework to reduce disease risks and improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Health Disparities
  • Intellectual Disability Research

Background:

  • Children with intellectual disability (ID) exhibit elevated risks for long-term health issues.
  • India has the highest global prevalence of ID, affecting 1.6 million young children.
  • This population is largely excluded from essential disease prevention and health promotion initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop an evidence-based conceptual framework for a needs-based, inclusive intervention.
  • The intervention aims to mitigate communicable and non-communicable disease risks in Indian children with ID.
  • Focus on improving health outcomes through a family-centered, cross-sectoral approach.

Main Methods:

  • Community engagement and involvement activities conducted across ten Indian states (April-July 2020).
  • Utilized a community-based participatory approach guided by the bio-psycho-social model.
  • Adapted public participation process steps for the health sector, involving 70 stakeholders (44 parents, 26 professionals).
  • Mapped stakeholder consultation outputs with systematic review evidence to create a conceptual framework and Theory of Change model.

Main Results:

  • A conceptual framework was developed, integrating stakeholder priorities and systematic review evidence.
  • A Theory of Change model was created, outlining a pathway for intervention.
  • Identified potential barriers, success criteria, and integration points with existing health systems through consultations.

Conclusions:

  • No current health promotion programs specifically target children with ID in India, despite their heightened health risks.
  • An urgent need exists to test the developed conceptual model for acceptance and effectiveness.
  • The model's validation should consider the socio-economic challenges faced by children with ID and their families in India.

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