[How much can we influence the evolution of neurodevelopment?]

The first 1000 days postconception are the critical and sensitive period for neurodevelopment, with the greatest exposure and vulnerability to environmental factors with short- and long-term neurobehavioral impact. Ninety percent of the brain is built in the first three years of life through the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic counseling is erroneously prioritized over environmental counseling, which is less costly and has a greater impact on the population. This paper analyzes the role of some environmental risk and protective factors that influence neurodevelopment and mental health, as inputs for promoting public policies to protect early childhood, especially in vulnerable populations.