title: [Epidemiology of developmental disorders in children in Tel Aviv].
abstract: We assessed the prevalence of developmental disorders, the need for intervention, potential for rehabilitation, and also characterized the risk factors, from files of 1,944 children referred during 1981-1990. The study group consisted of 4.3% of the children born in Tel Aviv during this period. Referral was highest between the ages 3-4 years and the causes for referral were language, speech and communication disorders (38%), global developmental delay (20%), motor disorders (16%), and behavioral and emotional problems (15%). Developmental disorders were more prevalent in boys (M/F ratio 1.8:1). 84% had at least 1 risk factor, either pre/perinatal, social or genetic. 66% had a social risk factor requiring involvement of a community social worker, or a parent with a chronic disease. The principal genetic risk factors were a developmental problem in a sibling, and parental consanguinity. The most common perinatal risk factors were birth weight under 2500 grams, hyperbilirubinemia of the newborn and severe asphyxia. Prognosis was good: 83% had normal intelligence and only 10% had severe disability. Upon discharge from the development center at the age of 5 years only 18% required special schooling, but 63% were referred for continuation of rehabilitation services. This study provides multi-disciplinary information that allows planning of requirements for diagnostic, therapeutic and rehabilitation services in the human, logistic and economic fields.
authors.affiliation: Institute for Child Development, Tel Aviv Medical Center.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Samuel
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Lerman-Sagie
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Nevo
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Harel
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D004519:Education, Special; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors; D012744:Sex Ratio