235 - Beyond Growth Charts: Understanding Developmental Delays in Children with Growth Faltering

Publication Number: 3227.235

Emily Guerrero, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Soukaina Adolphe, Boston University School of Medicine, hyde park, MA, United States; Brianna T. Labonte, Boston University School of Medicine, Revere, MA, United States; Evelyn J. Ivry, Boston Medical Center, Ramsey, NJ, United States; Ishita Kaloti, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Mona Roberts, Boston University School of Medicine, Canton, MA, United States; Megan Sandel, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States

Background: Children with Growth Faltering are at heightened risk for developmental delays, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the prevalence and characteristics of these co-occurring conditions remain understudied in clinical settings. The GROW Clinic at Boston Medical Center serves a largely underserved pediatric population experiencing growth faltering, many of whom also present with feeding challenges, sensory sensitivities, or developmental delays.

Objective: This study aims to analyze diagnostic patterns, service referrals, and growth outcomes to inform earlier identification and targeted support for this high-risk group. By identifying key trends in diagnosis timing and service utilization, the study will strengthen clinical workflows, inform multidisciplinary care planning, and enhance the integration of developmental screening within nutritional and medical management practices.

Design/Methods: This retrospective review examined medical records of GROW Clinic patients under age 10 with documented Growth Faltering and/or developmental delays (ASD, speech, motor, cognitive, or feeding challenges) over the past five years. Data was extracted from EPIC and compiled in a secure database. Variables included demographics, anthropometrics, diagnostic timelines, service referrals (e.g., Early Intervention, speech, occupational therapy), and developmental milestones. Descriptive and comparative analyses assessed patterns in diagnosis timing, service access, and growth outcomes.

Results: Preliminary findings demonstrate a strong overlap between Growth Faltering and developmental conditions, particularly ASD and speech or motor delays. Children who received a formal developmental diagnosis and were referred to supportive services exhibited improvements in both weight and weight-for-age z-scores at follow-up, suggesting that timely recognition and coordinated care may improve nutritional and developmental outcomes. Demographic differences were also observed in diagnosis timing and access to intervention services.

Conclusion(s): These findings highlight the importance of developmental screening in pediatric populations presenting with Growth Faltering. Children with co-occurring developmental delays often benefit from earlier identification and connection to supportive services, which can positively impact growth and development.