Developmental delay in a community setting: Role of a primary care physician

ABSTRACT The early part of childhood especially the first 1000 days plays an essential role in the growth and development of the child. Various internal and external factors affect the child’s development, including genetic factors, socioeconomic status, sociocultural environment, maternal mental health, and the parenting environment. There is a high prevalence of developmental delay 17.6% globally, whereas in India, it is around 6.6%. Numerous screening tools are available to detect developmental delay in the child early. Early identification and intervention are crucial because we can have a better outcome for the child if intervention is performed on time. The children can be identified during the postnatal follow-up period. Literature has shown that few parents take their children for regular developmental assessment after delivery. Identifying the developmental impairment early from a primary care physician’s point of view is essential. In India under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Kariyakram (RBSK), the children are screened at home, Anganwadi centers, and schools to detect at-risk children under 4D’s, so that early intervention can be planned by linking them to District Early Intervention Center.