Childhood Diarrhoea May Permanently Affect IQ

Newswise — Persistent diarrhoea in childhood can affect IQ, up to 10 years later and possibly longer, reports Marina Murphy in this issue of Chemistry & Industry Magazine.

The report explains the work of US doctor Richard Guerrant who found that total days of diarrhoea in the first years of life is directly linked with diminished cognitive function in later years, suggesting permanent damage to the brain could be caused.

The study involved children living in slums in Brazil, but persistent diarrhoea can affect the IQ of any child, they say. Children affected are older when they start school and progress more slowly.

'Persistent diarrhoea in childhood can affect IQ, up to 10 years later and possibly longer, reports Marina Murphy in this issue of Chemistry & Industry Magazine.

The reason IQ is affected is not known. Dehydration, which also plays a part in some strokes in the elderly, may contribute. But Guerrant says nutrient malabsorption is the likely cause and his group are currently examining this possibility. Sanitation and poor water are a major factor for the Brazilian children, he said.

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