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Defining developmental disabilities -

The term "developmental disabilities" refers to a diverse group of conditions that involve mental and/or physical impairments arising before adulthood.

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Difficulties -

A person with developmental disabilities may experience difficulties in many areas of life including, but not limited to, language, mobility, and learning.

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ADHD -

One example of a developmental disability is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes people to struggle to pay attention or control impulsive behaviors.

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ADHD -

There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed, and some symptoms may improve with treatment as the child ages.

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ASD -

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as Asperger syndrome are also classified as developmental disabilities. These can cause significant communication and behavioral challenges.

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ASD -

The symptoms of autism spectrum disorders vary in severity, and there are many treatments available to help people live with ASD.

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Cerebral palsy -

Cerebral palsy (CP) is another group of disorders that comes under the umbrella of developmental disabilities. CP affects a child’s ability to move and maintain balance.

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Cerebral palsy -

CP is the most common motor disability in children; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in 345 children are affected.

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Down syndrome -

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes a child to be born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is also quite common, occurring in around one in 1,000 babies born each year.

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Down syndrome -

The extra chromosome in people with Down syndrome affects the development of both the body and the brain, and it can cause a range of mental and physical impairments.

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Fragile X syndrome -

Fragile X syndrome (FSX) is a developmental disability that we still do not know much about, although it appears to be more frequent among males.

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Fragile X syndrome -

FSX is believed to be a genetic condition that causes autism and intellectual disability. Scientists are actively working to understand more about this condition and how we can best support those affected.

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FASDs -

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can develop in babies whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy.

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FASDs -

The conditions are caused prior to birth and have symptoms that include abnormal appearance, low body weight, behavioral problems, and learning difficulties.

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Others -

The list of developmental disabilities listed above is not exhaustive—there are many others that have not been included.

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Causes -

For some developmental disabilities, such as FASDs, we know the cause. For the majority, however, we do not know.

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Combination of factors -

It is thought that most developmental disabilities are caused by a complex combination of factors, including genetics, parental health and behaviors during pregnancy, and complications during birth.

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Diabetes during pregnancy -

A major global study has found that diabetes during pregnancy is associated with a significantly higher risk of developmental disorders in children, including ADHD, autism, and intellectual disabilities. Published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, the analysis examined over 56 million pregnancies and revealed a 28% increase in the likelihood of these conditions when mothers had diabetes. Experts say the findings highlight the need for early detection and management of diabetes in pregnant women.

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Other relevant factors -

Also potentially relevant are any infections the mother may have had during pregnancy, or the baby may have had during early life, as well as exposure to high levels of environmental toxins, such as lead.

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Diagnosing developmental disabilities -

Developmental disabilities usually begin during the developmental period, and when it comes to diagnosing them, monitoring is of the utmost importance.

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Diagnosing developmental disabilities - Developmental monitoring involves observing how a child grows, and monitoring whether they meet the typical developmental milestones that most children meet by a given age.

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Who's involved -

Parents, grandparents, educators, and caregivers can all participate in developmental monitoring, and there are many resources available with helpful information about milestones.

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Milestone Tracker app -

For example, the CDC has created a Milestone Tracker app to help parents and other providers work together to monitor a child’s development.

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When to consult a doctor -

If you are concerned that your child is not meeting their developmental milestones, it is important that you consult their doctor and share your concerns.

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Speak up -

Acting early can make a real difference when it comes to developmental disabilities, so do not be afraid to reach out. After all, you know your child best.

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Developmental screening -

Developmental screening is more formal than developmental monitoring and often forms part of a well-child visit, even if there is no particular concern.

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AAP recommendation -

Currently the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends developmental and behavioral screening for all children at ages nine, 18, and 30 months.

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ASD screening -

In addition, the AAP recommends that children be screened specifically for ASD at the ages of 18 and 24 months.

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At the appointment -

At a well-child visit, your child’s doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your child’s development, and may play with your child to see if they are meeting their milestones.

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At the appointment -

Your doctor or nurse may also ask about any conditions your child’s family members may have, such as ASD or ADHD.

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All in all -

Living with developmental disabilities can be very challenging for all those affected. But catching them early can make a real difference, so adults should always be ready to voice any concerns they may have.

See also: The most common genetic conditions in the world

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