Журнал патологии речи и терапии

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Exploring the Co-Occurrence of Childhood Apraxia of Speech and Developmental Coordination Disorder: Implications for Early Intervention and Multidisciplinary Approach

Meriam Camilleri

Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a communication disorder characterized by difficulties in planning and executing speech motor movements, while Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects a child’s ability to plan and perform motor movements. This study investigated the prevalence of possible DCD in children with suspected CAS compared to the general population. A sample of 35 children with suspected CAS completed a DCD screening questionnaire, revealing that 49% of them showed signs of co-occurring suspected CAS and possible DCD, significantly higher than the 9% prevalence of DCD in the general population. These findings underscore the need for further research to explore the relationship between CAS and DCD through population-based studies. Early identification and multidisciplinary intervention involving speech-language pathologists and other professionals are essential to support children with both CAS and possible DCD effectively.