Cytogenetic abnormalities in mentally challenged children with or without physical disability in special care in Vellore district

Abstract

This study was designed to estimate the prevalence of disability in children of Vellore district and to find the prevalence of intellectual disability among the disabled children population in Vellore district. Conventional karyotyping in selected children with intellectual disability from our study population is essential. This is a Community based cross sectional genetic study using quantitative and qualitative components. - For the quantitative component the mother and father were interviewed with a proforma to gather information on Family history, Maternal history, Prenatal risk factors, Natal and neonatal details, Breast feeding and weaning, Postnatal details, Milestones in months, Fine motor skills, Daily activities, Anthropometric and clinical assessment were done using a case study format. In-depth interviews were conducted followed by counseling for the qualitative component to obtain the information on socio-cultural beliefs, child rearing practices and health seeking behavior. Impact of the study: No study has been done at the community level for the past twenty years. The state has no database of genetic, endocrine or metabolic disorders that occur at birth in the 11 lakh children born in the state every year. Such conditions lead to death within the first four weeks, or it stunts growth and causes irreparable damage to the brain. Our report will show a new path to the Community Genetic workup to prevent Intellectual Disability (ID). The current work will be an eye-opener for several studies to find the extent of Intellectual Disability at the community level so that we can initiate early treatment and prevent further damage in the health of children. newline