Risk Factors for Young
Children
EDCI 336
October 25, 2007
Risk Factors
Genetic influences
15-25% of cases
Environmental
influences
75-85% of cases
Genetic Influences
Syndromes (Down,
Fragile-X)
Metabolic disorders
(PKU)
Environmental Risk Factors
Low SES
Families with varied
cultural backgrounds
Dysfunctional families
Teen or older mothers
Environmental Risk Factors
Non-English speaking
homes
Prenatal exposure to
Viruses, drugs, alcohol
Environmental Risk Factors
Malnourished mother
Mother with:
Diabetes, syphilis,
some viral infections
Medical Complications
Hypoglycemia
Respiratory Distress
Syndrome
Retinopathy of
Prematurity
Medical Complications
Brain infections
Degenerative diseases
Brain tumors
Medical Complications
Drug-induced delays
Seizure disorders
Injuries due to
battered child
syndrome