Title: Sociodemographic and Clinical Profile of Down Syndrome Children Less Than 18 years and Its Effect on Caregiver Burden in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Dr. Rejil C R, Dr. Shanavas A
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v13i11.05
Abstract
Introduction: Down syndrome is one of the leading causes of intellectual disability. They face various health issues, including speech abnormalities, congenital heart diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, leukaemia, and Hirschsprung. The emotional and social stress that these parents undergo because of such a child in a family is immense. This study aims to determine the sociodemographic and clinical profiles of children with Down syndrome.
Objective: To assess the sociodemographic and clinical profile and caregiver burden of children with Down syndrome.
Methodology: Data is obtained by personal interview using a standard proforma and consent from caregivers attending the Regional Early Intervention Centre and the Department of Paediatrics at Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha. Subjects were interviewed using a questionnaire that includes a burden interview, sociodemographic profile, Kuppswamy scale, modified Zarit scale for caregiver burden, and a clinical examination.
Results: 57.5% are men. Mother primarily belongs to the 18-25 age range. Paternal education level is higher than maternal. The majority of fathers work in semi-skilled jobs, while most mothers are homemakers. Upper lower-class families have more. The majority resides in rural areas. In most cases, the mother serves as the primary caregiver. Most of them attend special school. The majority bear a mild to moderate burden. Anthropometry is normal in the majority. Hypothyroidism affects 50% of people. Mild intellectual disability is more. OSASD is a common CHD.
Conclusion: Males are more. Maternal age is younger during pregnancy. Paternal education and occupation rank higher than maternal. Upper-class families are more common, and the majority of the study population lives in rural areas. In most cases, the mother serves as the primary caregiver. The majority of the pupils attend special school. Mild to moderate burden is prevalent. Hypothyroidism affects 50% of people. Mild ID is more. OSASD is a common CHD.
Keywords: Down syndrome, clinical profile, sociodemographic profile, caregiver burden
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