Implications of Early Diagnosis and Intervention in the Management of Neurodevelopmental Delay (NDD) in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Neuro-developmental delay (NDD) is when a child's reflexes and nervous system are underdeveloped or immature at a given stage of child development. Neurodevelopmental delays account for delayed skill development surrounding speech, social, emotional, behavioral, motor, and cognitive delays. NDD might affect the child's psychological and physical well-being, resulting in chronic disease and disabilities throughout adulthood. This review sought to investigate the implication of early diagnosis and intervention of NDD in children. In this regard, this research opted for a systematic meta-analysis that used keywords and Boolean operators to search through main databases, including the Web of Science, JStor, PsychINFO, Science Direct, Cochrane, Scopus, and ASSIA. The result identified that telehealth interventions improved the management of NDD in children. Also, the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) model was determined to improve the quality of life for NDD children. Another model was LEAP (Learning Experience and Alternative Program for Preschoolers and Their Parents) and Leap (Learning, engaging, and Playing), which improved behavioral, education, and social interventions in NDD children. The study identified that technology could revolutionize NDD interventions in children, possibly improving the quality of life. The parent-children relationship was shown to enhance the management of this condition; thus, it is recommended as one of the best ways to intervene in the management of NDD. Most importantly, the integration of machine learning algorithms and technology can create models; while this may not be significant in the treatment of childhood NDD but instead might be ideal in improving the quality of life for NDD children. Moreover, their social and communication skills along with academic achievements will improve. The study proposes further research in order to understand the different types of NDDs and their intervention strategies to help the researchers identify the most accurate models to improve the conditions and support the parents and guardians in the management.