Child’s Psychomotor Development at Matanza-Riachuelo Basin: Screening for Non-Apparent Developmental Problems

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Childpsychomotor development is related to the expression of potentialities, to social integration and to performance in life. Early detection of problems with screening techniques ensures appropriate and cost-effective interventions. The General Direction of Environmental Health (DGSA) from Matanza-Riachuelo Basin Authority (ACUMAR) performs surveys on vulnerable population in that highly polluted area. OBJECTIVE: To detect problems of nutrition and psychomotor development in children under six years of age, to perform a toxicological analysis and a qualitative research on rearing practices and environmental risk perception, and to make a georeferenced image. METHODS: The DGSA used the National Screening Test (PRUNAPE) and the PRUNAPE Pre-Screening Questionnaire (CPPP). Nine surveys were carried out in more than 7000 children living in the jurisdictions of the Basin: 14 municipalities of the Buenos Aires metropolitan area and part of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (with over 5 million inhabitants). RESULTS: The study showed a high rate of risk of developmental problems, a higher prevalence in boys than in girls, a growing prevalence from birth up to four years and a decrease at five. The main determinants were poverty and indigence levels, parental educational level and low birth weight. CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of this issue in the DGSA agenda means a significant progress in the public health approach and allows the tackling of major determinants to improve the development of children.