Conclusion
This systematic review and meta-analyses provided evidence that preterm
children are at higher risk for DCD than full-term children, and the
risks increased as gestational age decreased. In sum, our findings
showed a DCD estimate pooled rate of 21% among preterm children, and
they are at 2 times higher risk than full-term peers. There was
variation in the prevalence of DCD in preterm according to prematurity
classification, the assessment tool used, and the cut-off points adopted
in each study. Limited available data on LMIC and for preterm
adolescents and adults were observed, evidencing the need for additional
primary research that would improve the estimated prevalence of DCD in
these populations and the need for diversity and inclusion in research
publication and support of researchers in LMIC countries. Clinical
practice should focus on longitudinal motor assessment, early diagnosis,
and early intervention for these children, while research should focus
on standard cut-off criteria and older preterm populations.