Prevalence and Factors Associated with Developmental Delays among Preschool Children in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Developmental delays (DDs) are increasing in prevalence and necessitate routine screening of young children for early recognition and management. Objective(s): To estimate the prevalence of DDs among preschool children and determine the risk factors associated with DDs in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved a total of 948 children at the ages 36, 48, and 60 months. Data were collected using a modified Arabic version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires, Third Edition (ASQ-3) to assess five domains of development (Gross Motor, Fine Motor, Language and Communication, Problem-Solving and Adaptive Behavior, and Personal and Social Performance). Parents' characteristics and risk factors related to DDs were included. The p-value was