J Korean Acad Rehabil Med.  2006 Apr;30(2):103-110.

Update on Mental Retardation

• Yim SY

Abstract

Mental retardation is a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and adaptive skills, which originates before the age of 18. The prevalence of mental retardation among elementary school children in Korea is estimated as 9~12/1,000. In most cases of mental retardation, the interplay of genetic and environmental influences remains poorly understood. However, recent advances in molecular genetic techniques have enabled us to understand more about the molecular basis of several genetic syndromes associated with mental retardation. This article presents a review of three common genetic conditions causing mental retardation-Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome-with the summary of the effectiveness of early intervention for the children with mental retardation.

Keyword

Cognitive development; Mental retardation; Down syndrome; Fragile X syndrome; Prader-Willi syndrome

MeSH Terms

Adaptation, Psychological
Child
Down Syndrome
Early Intervention (Education)
Fragile X Syndrome
Humans
Intellectual Disability*
Korea
Molecular Biology
Prader-Willi Syndrome
Prevalence