Global Developmental Delay

WHAT IS GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY?

Global Developmental Delay (GDD) is the general term used to describe a condition that occurs during the developmental period of a child between birth and 18 years. It is usually defined by the child being diagnosed with having a lower intellectual functioning than what is perceived as ‘normal’. It is usually accompanied by having significant limitations in communication. It is said to affect about 1-3% of the population.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY?
The most common causes of GDD are chromosomal and/or genetic abnormalities such as Down's Syndrome and Fragile X Syndrome or abnormalities with the structure or development of the brain or spinal cord such as Cerebral Palsy or Spina Bifida.

Other causes can include prematurity – being born too early - or infections, such as Congenital Rubella or Meningitis.

There are a number of diagnostic tests that can be done to identify the underlying cause of GDD. Sometimes these causes can be treated to cure the developmental delay, or at least to prevent it worsening. However, often the cause is never able to be fully determined.

SIGNS OF GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY CAN INCLUDE:

• The child is unable to sit on the floor without support by 8 months;
• The child is unable to crawl by 12 months;
• The child has poor social skills/ judgment;
• The child is unable to roll over by 6 months;
• The child has communication problems
• The child has fine/ gross motor difficulties
• The child shows aggressive behavior as a coping skill

In some children GDD is suspected soon after birth because of feeding difficulties or muscle-tone. In others it is suspected later when learning or behavior difficulties occur at school.

TREATMENTS FOR GLOBAL DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY:
There is no single treatment for GDD but there are ways to help some of the conditions that may be causing the delay. Once a pediatrician or neurologist has completed testing of the child, he/ she may advise on treatments for whatever underlying medical conditions that may exist. For example, hearing or visual impairment or therapeutic input by a Speech and Language Therapist Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist. It is possible that no cause will be found or that the cause that is identified may be difficult, if not impossible, to treat.

On the other hand, being aware of the conditions that are causing the delay can help parents, teachers and medical professionals to better counsel and guide children who are experiencing developmental problems.

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Although the information we have provided here is meant to be helpful to you, Douglas Silas Solicitors cannot be held responsible for any damage or loss caused by any inaccuracy or reliance placed upon it. If you have any concerns about your child, you should seek professional educational or healthcare advice as soon as possible.