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Exploring prevalence and key determinants of developmental difficulties among young children: a cross-sectional study

Rebeka Jesmin Sarker1, Md Biplob Hossain1,2, Jenifar Sarker2

  • 1Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh.

BMC Pediatrics
|May 8, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Nearly 28% of young children in urban Bangladesh show signs of developmental difficulties. Low birth weight and poor hygiene significantly increase this risk, highlighting the need for early intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Child Development
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Developmental difficulties (DD) encompass delays in cognitive, language, motor, and social-emotional skills in children.
  • Limited data exists on the prevalence and associated factors of DD in very young children in urban Bangladesh.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of suspected developmental difficulties in children aged 0-3 years in urban Bangladesh.
  • To identify factors associated with suspected developmental difficulties in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 405 children aged 0-3 years and their parents in Dhaka City.
  • Data collection via interviews and observations using a semi-structured questionnaire and the Trivandrum Developmental Screening Chart (TDSC).
  • Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify associations.

Main Results:

  • Overall, 27.9% of children screened positive for suspected DD.
  • Higher prevalence was noted in younger children (≤12 months), those with low birth weight (LBW), and from lower- to middle-income families.
  • Independent risk factors for suspected DD included younger age (≤12 months), LBW, and poor hygiene practices.

Conclusions:

  • A significant proportion (one in four) of young children in urban Bangladesh exhibit suspected DD.
  • Early screening and targeted interventions are crucial for addressing developmental challenges and improving early childhood development outcomes.
Abstract

Keywords:
BangladeshDevelopmental difficultiesUrban areasYoung children

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