Prevalence and Risk Factors of Speech and Language Disorders in Young Children: A Cross-Sectional Study In a Pediatric Rehabilitation Ward

Abstract

Background: Speech and language disorders in young children can have substantial impacts on their social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors associated with these disorders is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment strategies. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of speech and language disorders in young children presenting to a Pediatric Rehabilitation Ward, to identify the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics associated with these conditions, and to evaluate the therapy patterns utilized in management. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the Pediatric Rehabilitation Ward of Liaquat University Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro Hospital, from May to August 2022. A total of 400 patients, aged 2-10 years and diagnosed with speech-language disorders by a psychiatrist, were included through non-probability convenience sampling. Data on demographics, socioeconomic status, therapy patterns, and diagnostic information were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: The study found that language delay was the most prevalent disorder, affecting 61.8% of the children. Males were more frequently affected (68.5%). Seizures were the most commonly reported medical condition in the sample (18.5%). The mean age at diagnosis was 3.58 years. A considerable number of children (38.0%) had a positive family history of speech-language disorders. Socioeconomic analysis revealed that a majority of the children (68%) came from middle-class families. The study also found that combined speech and behavioral therapy was the most common treatment approach (28.8%). Conclusion: Language delay is the most common speech-language disorder among children in this study, with a higher prevalence in males and those from middle-class families. Early detection and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, including both speech and behavioral therapy, are imperative for effective management.