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Effects of poverty on cognitive function

A hidden neurologic epidemic

From the Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical College, Chicago, IL.

Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Donna C. Bergen, Suite 1106, 1725 West Harrison St., Chicago, IL 60612 dbergen{at}rush.edu

Mental retardation is one of the most prevalent neurologic disorders globally. Surveys in high-income countries show 3 to 5 per 1,000 with severe intellectual disability, i.e., IQ below 55. Estimates from developing countries, however, have found prevalence rates from 5 to as much as 22 per 1,000. Protein-energy malnutrition, dietary micronutrient deficiencies, environmental toxins, and lack of early sensory stimulation or the ability to profit from it may contribute to neurodevelopmental disabilities. Tropical diseases such as parasitosis with resultant anemia, malaria, and other infections are major contributory causes. Reduction of poverty and its effects would reduce the present and future burden of mental retardation and cognitive dysfunction, especially in developing countries.

Abbreviations: DALY = disability-adjusted life-year; PCBs = polychlorinated biphenyls; PKU = phenylketonuria.

Disclosure: The author reports no disclosures.

Received December 18, 2007. Accepted in final form March 24, 2008.