Last modified: 2018-09-09
Abstract
Background:
Identification of potential risk factors for childhood disability is important for its prevention.
Aims:
We assessed various factors associated with childhood disability among children from 0-5 years of age in a rural population in Pakistan.
Methods:
This was a case control study. Disability was identified by using the “Ten Questions” (TQ) and “Signs of Disability in Newborn and Infants” screens. Children with disability were matched for age and sex with control children in the same locality. A questionnaire was used to record data on various maternal factors, factors related to delivery, condition of the baby, socioeconomic status and basic demographics.
Results:
Important risk factors associated with disability included fever in mother during pregnancy (OR 7.9, 95%CI2.4-27.0) and grand multiparity (=>5 pregnancies) (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.0-2.7). Risk factors related to the baby at the time of delivery i.e. cyanosis or requirement of oxygen had an OR of 28.0 (95% CI 7.6-102.4). Marriage within community or caste had an OR 3.2 (95% CI 1.0-10.6).
This data suggests that effective care during pregnancy and delivery and appropriate antenatal counseling might help reduce child disability in rural Pakistan