Title : Transforming pediatric neurodevelopment care in Angola: Clinical outcomes from early multidisciplinary intervention in children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Abstract:
Background: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developmental delays, speech and language disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), are increasingly affecting children worldwide. In Angola, limited access to specialized services, delayed diagnosis, and low public awareness continue to compromise early intervention opportunities.
Objective: This study aimed to describe the clinical outcomes observed in children with neurodevelopmental disorders receiving early multidisciplinary intervention in Angola and to highlight the impact of family-centered neurodevelopment care in a low-resource setting.
Methods: A retrospective clinical observational study was conducted using data from pediatric patients followed at Caliomac Clínica Pediátrica and Hospital Geral do Bengo, Angola, between 2024 and 2026. Children aged 2–10 years underwent individualized multidisciplinary intervention programs including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech-language therapy, occupational therapy with sensory integration, nutritional guidance, developmental stimulation, and parental training.
Results: Significant improvements were observed in communication skills, social interaction, adaptive behavior, emotional regulation, attention, and participation in daily activities. Children who initiated intervention at younger ages demonstrated greater developmental gains, particularly in expressive language and social communication.
Conclusion: Early multidisciplinary intervention can produce meaningful developmental improvements in children with neurodevelopmental disorders in Angola, even within low-resource healthcare settings.
