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The prevalence of mental retardation (MR) in Kurume City
Insights
This study surveyed mentally handicapped children aged 7-12 in Kurume City, Japan. The research found a prevalence rate of 7.1 per 1,000 children, with a significant male predominance.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Epidemiology
- Child Neurology
Background:
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for mentally handicapped children.
- The Mental Retardation (MR) Monitoring Research Committee in Japan initiated a comprehensive survey to address this need.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence rate and etiology of mental retardation (MR) in children born between 1969 and 1974.
- To provide data for early detection and intervention strategies for mentally handicapped children in Kurume City.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted in 1981 targeting children aged 7 to 12 years in Kurume City.
- Data collection focused on identifying children with mental retardation and analyzing prevalence and etiological factors.
Main Results:
- A total of 154 children with MR were identified.
- Prevalence rates ranged from 5.7/1,000 to 8.1/1,000, with a mean prevalence of 7.1/1,000 children.
- A significant male excess was observed, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.4:1 (p < 0.005).
Conclusions:
- The study established the prevalence of mental retardation in the specified age group in Kurume City.
- Findings highlight a notable gender disparity in MR, underscoring the need for gender-specific considerations in research and clinical practice.
Abstract:
For the purpose of early detection and intervention in mentally handicapped children, the mental retardation (MR) Monitoring Research Committee in Japan initiated a survey in 1981 to determine the prevalence rate and etiology of MR children who had been born between 1969 and 1974, that's those currently from 7 to 12 years of age, living in Kurume City. We found 154 MR children, and that the prevalence ratios in each year group ranged from 5.7/1,000 to 8.1/1,000. The mean prevalence of MR out of all children in each age year group was 7.1/1,000. Of the 154 MR children, 109 were males (9.8/1,000) and 45 females (4.3/1,000), giving a male excess ratio of 2.4:1. The sex difference was significant (p less than 0.005).