We are excited to share journal publications like this one resulting from FORWARD data. There are many more papers currently in development, and the future for Fragile X syndrome research is bright as more data is gathered.
A Pilot Quantitative Evaluation of Early Life Language Development in Fragile X Syndrome
Abstract
Language delay and communication deficits are a core characteristic of the fragile X syndrome (FXS) phenotype. To date, the literature examining early language development in FXS is limited potentially due to barriers in language assessment in very young children. The present study is one of the first to examine early language development through vocal production and the language learning environment in infants and toddlers with FXS utilizing an automated vocal analysis system. Child vocalizations, conversational turns, and adult word counts in the home environment were collected and analyzed in a group of nine infants and toddlers with FXS and compared to a typically developing (TD) normative sample. Results suggest infants and toddlers with FXS are exhibiting deficits in their early language skills when compared to their chronological expectations. Despite this, when accounting for overall developmental level, their early language skills appear to be on track. Additionally, FXS caregivers utilize less vocalizations around infants and toddlers with FXS; however, additional research is needed to understand the true gap between FXS caregivers and TD caregivers. These findings provide preliminary information about the early language learning environment and support for the feasibility of utilizing an automated vocal analysis system within the FXS population that could ease data collection and further our understanding of the emergence of language development.
Reisinger, D.L.; Shaffer, R.C.; Pedapati, E.V.; Dominick, K.C.; Erickson, C.A. A Pilot Quantitative Evaluation of Early Life Language Development in Fragile X Syndrome. Brain Sci. 2019, 9, 27.
About the FORWARD-MARCH Registry & Database
Since 2012, the CDC has funded four FORWARD Fragile X studies to expand understanding of Fragile X syndrome. The NFXF has been coordinating study efforts since the beginning and has been vital in ensuring its success.
FORWARD-MARCH is the next step and will collect more detailed information from participants to better understand FXS and improve the lives of children and adolescents with FXS and the lives of their families.
Below are more journal publications resulting from FORWARD data.
more from forward
Drug Interventions for IAAS in Fragile X Syndrome
Research Summary // A regularly cited group of behaviors in individuals with Fragile X syndrome, particularly males, is irritability, agitation, aggression and self-injurious behaviors.
ASD Diagnosis in Fragile X Syndrome
Research Summary // Intellectual disability and co-occurring mental health conditions can be interpreted as autistic features, making it difficult to diagnose in FXS.
Featured image by Ayush Shakya from Pixabay