Developmental Coordination Disorder in Preterm Children: A Systematic
Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Aims: to systematically review the prevalence of DCD in individuals born
preterm; explore this prevalence according to gestational age and
different assessments cut-offs; and compare to full-term peers. Methods:
The eligibility criteria was observational and experimental studies
reporting the prevalence of DCD in preterm individuals. A systematic
search was performed in databases from inception until March 2022. The
selection was performed by two independent reviewers. Study quality
assessment was performed using the checklists from Joanna Briggs
Institute (JBI). Data analysis were performed on Excel and Review
Manager Software 5.4. Results: Among the 1774 studies identified, 32
matched the eligibility criteria. The pooled estimates of DCD rate in
preterm was 21% (95% CI 17.8–24.3). The estimate rates were higher as
gestational age decreased, and preterm children are two times more
likely to have DCD than their full-term peers RR 2.2 (95% IC
1.77–2.79). Interpretation: The limitation was high heterogeneity
between studies: the assessment tools and cut-off points, as well as the
age at assessment, were diverse. This study provided evidence that
preterm children are at higher risk for DCD than full-term children, and
the risks increased as gestational age decreased.