Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, affect over 10% of Canadians. These disorders are usually diagnosed late during development, leading to increased severity and chronicity.
This longitudinal study aims to examine the relationship between brain structure, brain activity in early childhood and neurodevelopment. To achieve this, a longitudinal follow-up will be conducted with young children, from birth to 4 years of age (3 visits: 3-6 months, 24 months and 4 years). The early development of brain structures will be examined using transfontanelle ultrasonography, a noninvasive technique for obtaining images of babies brain. Brain growth will also be assessed by measuring head circumference, a commonly used measure to estimate brain volume. Cerebral activity during learning tasks will be examined using electroencephalography, and child development will be evaluated through questionnaires and neuropsychological tests. Hence, this study will help identify early markers of abnormal brain functioning associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, which in turn could facilitate early diagnosis.
