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Perceptual, motor and attentional deficits in six-year-old children. Epidemiological aspects
Insights
This study investigated childhood MBD (Minimal Brain Dysfunction) prevalence in Gothenburg preschoolers. Findings suggest 1.2% severe and 5.9% mild-moderate MBD, though high refusal rates require further follow-up for full evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Minimal Brain Dysfunction (MBD) is a complex developmental disorder.
- Accurate prevalence data is crucial for understanding MBD's impact on child development and educational needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of Minimal Brain Dysfunction (MBD) in a large cohort of six-year-old children.
- To identify preschool signs and symptoms associated with MBD.
Main Methods:
- A population-based study involving 4797 six-year-old children in Gothenburg.
- Teacher questionnaires (n=3448 completed) followed by neurological, psychiatric, and psychological assessments for selected children.
- Factor analysis and pilot study results informed case selection.
Main Results:
- MBD was diagnosed in 41% of children with preschool symptoms versus 3% in controls.
- Estimated population prevalence: 1.2% severe MBD and 5.9% mild-moderate MBD.
- A significant questionnaire refusal rate (28%) was noted.
Conclusions:
- The study provides an estimated prevalence of MBD in young children.
- Further long-term follow-up is necessary to validate the findings, particularly for the mild-moderate MBD category.
Abstract:
A total population study of 4797 six-year-old children attending the public preschools in the city of Göteborg (Gothenburg) has been carried out. A questionnaire with 34 questions about MBD-related problems was distributed to all pre-school teachers. Three thousand four hundred and forty-eight questionnaires were completed. Factor analysis of the questionnaire and empirical results from a pilot study provided the basis for selecting for further study children with pre-school signs and symptoms suggestive of MBD. Neurological, psychiatric and psychological assessment of 82 children with, and 59 children without, pre-school symptoms of MBD revealed that in the index groups 41% of the children, and in the control group 3% of the children, had MBD. Extrapolation procedures gave a total population frequency of 1.2% with severe MBD and a further 5.9% with mild-moderate MBD. A very large questionnaire refusal rate (28%) is discussed. The relevance of the calculated frequency figures, especially as regards the mild-moderate MBD category, cannot be properly evaluated until long-term follow-up has been completed.