Individual, school and natural environment influences on children with motor coordination problems: The Peruvian Health and Optimist Growth Study

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between individual and natural environments, as well as the effects of school characteristics, on Peruvian children and adolescents’ gross motor coordination (GMC) problems. The sample comprises 7401 participants (4121 girls) aged 6–14 years from three geographical regions: sea-level, Amazon and high-altitude. GMC categories (normal and with problems) were defined from the KörperkoordinationsTest für Kinder test battery. Stunting (height-for-age) and nutritional status (BMI-for-age) were obtained from WHO Growth Standards. Biological maturation was estimated, and physical fitness was measured. School context information was obtained from an objective audit. Logistic multilevel analysis was used. Results showed a high prevalence of GMC problems in Peruvian youth. Sex, age, geographical area of residence, biological maturation, nutritional status, stunting and physical fitness were important predictors of GMC problems. Moreover, there was an interaction between age, sex, and geographical area showing that girls, older subjects, and those from sea level regions were more likely to display GMC problems. The school context was less important in predicting GMC problems than the interplay between individual characteristics and the natural environment. The early identification as well as educational and pediatric care interventions are of utmost importance to reduce GMC problems among Peruvian children and adolescents.