Health problems in children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities: a scoping review

Lian M Zandbelt1, Esther J Bakker-van Gijssel1,2,3, Catelijne H Coppens1

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Children's Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

PubMed

Insights

Children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) experience numerous health issues, including epilepsy and respiratory infections. Further research is crucial to improve their medical care and quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Disability Studies
  • Medical Research

Background:

  • Children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) present complex health needs with severe intellectual and motor impairments.
  • Care for these children is often fragmented, involving frequent hospital visits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate and categorize the health problems experienced by children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD).
  • To synthesize existing literature on the health conditions affecting this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive scoping review was conducted across five major electronic databases.
  • Included studies focused on children with severe intellectual and motor impairments, analyzing reported health problems.
  • Data extraction followed JBI checklist recommendations, categorizing health issues into 11 distinct groups.

Main Results:

  • The review encompassed 22 studies involving 894 children with PIMD.
  • Epilepsy, respiratory infections, feeding difficulties, GERD, scoliosis, and visual impairment were the most frequently reported health problems.
  • Significant variability was observed in the definition and terminology used for PIMD across studies.

Conclusions:

  • Existing research offers a broad overview but lacks depth in specific health problem areas for children with PIMD.
  • Further investigation into the prevalence, onset, and optimal treatments for these health issues is essential.
  • Early detection and management of health problems can significantly enhance medical care and the quality of life for children with PIMD.

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