Burden of Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Kenyan Children

What are the extent of and factors associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in young children living in a defined area in Kilifi, Kenya?In this cross-sectional study including 11 223 children aged 6 to 9 years, NDDs occurred in 9%, and behavioral manifestations (eg, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) were more common than neurologic manifestations (eg, epilepsy). NDDs were associated with factors including perinatal complications, febrile infections, and medical problems such as malnutrition.The findings suggest interventions and studies should be initiated to understand and address factors associated with NDDs to support parents of affected children and increase understanding among stakeholders.

Corresponding Author: Symon M. Kariuki, DPhil, African Population and Health Research Center, PO Box 10787 Nairobi, Kenya (skariuki@kemri-wellcome.org; skariuki@aphrc.org).

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