Burden of Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Kenyan Children

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disability, represent a significant global health burden.
• The prevalence and impact of NDDs in Africa remain under-documented, necessitating focused research in the region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of NDDs in young Kenyan children.
• To identify risk factors, comorbidities, and sociodemographic associations of NDDs in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kenya's Kilifi Health and Demographic Surveillance System.
• Children aged 6-9 years underwent a two-stage screening and clinical evaluation process.
• Generalized linear models were used to analyze prevalence, risk factors, and comorbidities.

Main Results:

• The adjusted prevalence of NDDs was 9.1%, with ADHD and cognitive impairment being the most common.
• Co-occurrence of NDDs was observed in 22.6% of affected children.
• Adverse perinatal events, febrile infections, pica (eating soil), snoring, and landless status were significant risk factors.

Conclusions:

• NDDs are prevalent in Kenyan school-aged children, with significant associations with potentially preventable environmental factors.
• Associated medical comorbidities, such as motor neuron dysfunction and malnutrition, require clinical attention.
• Early identification and intervention strategies for NDDs and their comorbidities are crucial for child health in Africa.