Feeding Challenges in Children With Down Syndrome: The Role of Aspiration and Clinical Subgroups

Tanrıverdi M., Zengin G., Güney Yılmaz G., Şahin T.

JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES (JARID), vol.38, no.5, pp.1-12, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 38 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/jar.70130
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES (JARID)
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), CINAHL, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), MEDLINE, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-12
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: Feeding difficulties, including aspiration risk, are common in children with Down syndrome. Identifying factorsaffecting feeding modality is crucial.Method: This cross-sectional study included 335 children with Down syndrome (aged 4–12 years; mean 5.2). Feeding was as-sessed using the Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), the Screening Tool of Feeding Problems (STEP), and clinical observation.Aspiration risk was identified through STEP items and clinician evaluation. FOIS scores categorised feeding as oral or non-oral.Results: Of participants, 74.1% were oral feeders and 25.9% received non-oral nutrition. Aspiration risk was present in 33.7%.Cluster analysis revealed distinct subgroups defined by aspiration, oral sensory issues, and behavioural problems. Younger agewas significantly associated with higher aspiration risk (OR = 0.38, p = 0.001).Conclusions: Aspiration risk influences feeding modality and subgroup characteristics. Early multidisciplinary assessment isessential, especially for younger children, to detect risk and guide safe, individualised feeding strategies.