Prevalence of specific learning disorders in school children in a South Indian city

Abstract

Background: Specific learning disorders (SLDs) are an important cause of academic problems in school children mandating assessment and remediation. Aim: To document the psychosocial profile and prevalence of SLDs in school children. Materials and Methods: A total of 981 children studying in 3rd to 5th standard were screened for the presence of SLDs in a stepwise approach after taking permission from school authorities and consent from parents. Raven's Progressive Matrices, Malins Intelligence Scale, and NIMHANS SLD Index were used for assessment. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi info software. Results: The prevalence of SLDs was found to be 6.1% (n = 60). Dyslexia was the most common SLD (n = 38; 63%) followed by combined type (n = 28; 46%). A significant association was found between consanguinity (P = 0.02) and delayed milestones (P = 0.02). Conclusion: There is a need for creating the awareness among parents and teachers regarding SLDs and to screen children for the early identification and remediation.

Keywords

• dyscalculia
• dysgraphia
• dyslexia
• nimhans specific learning disorder index
• school children
• specific learning disorders