Global developmental delay (GDD) involves significant lags in two or more developmental areas—like motor skills, speech, cognition, social interaction, and daily activities—in children under 5, often diagnosed when milestones aren't met.
## Key Symptoms
Children with GDD show delays across multiple domains compared to peers.
- Not sitting by 9 months or walking by 18 months.
- Limited speech, like no simple words by age 2.
- Challenges in social play, problem-solving, or learning new information.
## Common Causes
GDD stems from diverse factors, many unidentified, but often prenatal, perinatal, or postnatal.
- Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome, Fragile X).
- Premature birth, low birth weight, or infections like meningitis.
- Environmental risks such as toxin exposure (alcohol, lead) or malnutrition.
