Elevated risk for developmental disabilities in children with congenital heart defects

Abstract

Background: This study examined risk for developmental disabilities in preschool-aged children with a congenital heart defect (CHD) at the population level. Methods: Statewide birth, birth defects, and preschool developmental disability records were integrated. The final sample included 1,966,585 children (51.0% male). Children were grouped by type(s) of CHD: critical CHD, noncritical CHD, atrial septal defect, or no major birth defects (groups were mutually exclusive). Results: Children with a CHD (any type) were at increased risk for developmental disability (any type) (RR 2.08, 95% CI 2.03–2.14, P