Assessment of Neurocognitive Developmentin Young Children in Kaffrine (Senegal): Results of the OX NDA and INTER NDA Testsin a Region with High Nutritional Vulnerability

Introduction: The early years of life are crucial for neurocognitive development. Whilst the impact of malnutrition is well documented, the interaction between nutritional factors and the family environment remains poorly studied, particularly in rural African settings. Methods: A prospective study was conducted from June 2021 to September 2024 involving 226 children aged 22 to 26 months (INTER NDA) and 171 children aged 10 to 14 months (OX NDA). The aim was to assess infants’ cognitive performance and the factors associated with it. Cognitive, language, motor and behavioural development were assessed. The family environment was measured using the IT-HOME questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using R software through descriptive and bivariate analyses. Results: The results show a high prevalence of delays. 76.6% of 12-month-old children exhibited a language delay (persisting in 70% at 24 months). We noted a high level of emotional responsiveness among caregivers to the child’s needs (87% - 94% of the maximum score) despite limited access to educational toys. Protective factors appear to be the promotion of the child’s development (p = 0.02) and the organization of the child’s physical and temporal environment (p = 0.004). Paradoxically, no significant association was found between anthropometric indicators and developmental scores. Conclusion: This study highlights how responsive care could mitigate material limitations, whilst emphasizing the urgency of addressing persistent language deficits.