Risk factors for developmental delay among infants and toddlers.
Definitions of risk, types of risk factors used in longitudinal studies of the development of infants and toddlers (0-3 years), and the predictive power of risk models in assessing developmental delays are reviewed. Biologic factors in combination with environmental risk factors give the best prediction of long-term outcome. When biological or environmental risk factors are examined independently, they are not powerful predictors. Recommendations are made for repeated screening for developmental risk factors during the first 3 years, and a model for provision of services is presented that assumes a differential risk algorithm.
Nisonger Center for Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, Columbus, OH 43210.
E H
EH
King
D A
DA
Logsdon
S R
SR
Schroeder
D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005190:Family; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000592:standards*; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012307:Risk Factors; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology