ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF SOCIAL RISK PREVENTABLE? INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES

Key words: Child health, Social risk, Prevention programmes, Intelligence, Behaviour

The Authors review and discuss the scientific evidence deriving from both descriptive and intervention studies regarding the preventability of the consequences of social disadvantage. The endpoints considered are development, intelligence, behaviour and ultimate social outcome. Although studies are very heterogeneous and results are variable, there is sufficient evidence to show that the future of children at social risk can be successfully inproved by early, continuous, social and emotional support to children and to their mothers. Paediatricians should be aware of these needs as well as of these opportunities.