Association of birth factors with subsequent developmental disability: effectiveness in predicting severity as measured by the PEDI.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if specific birth factors can be used to predict a subsequent disability and severity level in self-care, mobility and social function as measured by the Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI).

DESIGN

This cross-sectional study design used retrospective data from birth records and concurrent data from PEDI scores.

METHOD

Sixty children (20 per group) were selected representing groups consistent with typical development, sensory processing disorders or physical disability. Mean age was 56 months; there were 32 males. Information extracted from birth records was compared to PEDI scores.

RESULTS

Univariate ANOVA showed differences among groups for PEDI scores (p < 0.001) and birth factors (p < 0.001). A forward logistic regression analysis revealed gestational age and 5-minute Apgar scores as potential predictors of PEDI scores.

CONCLUSION

Findings indicated that two birth factors were related to later functional performance, but only in children with sensory processing deficits.