Prevention of Mental Retardation

• Prenatal Period (Before delivery) –
• Periodic checkups for pregnant mother (for early diagnosis & intervention).
• Immunization against certain diseases during pregnancy.
• Avoiding unnecessary medication, exposure to radiation etc.
• Taking nutritious food.
• Abortion by any qualified medical doctor (if necessary due to any reason)
• Avoiding accidents and hard work. ·
• Avoiding alcoholic drinks & smoking.

Perinatal Period (During delivery) –

• Conducting deliveries by trained personnel. ·
• Early detection of complication of pregnancy & instituting appropriate care

Postnantal Period (After delivery) –

•  Early immunization against diseases.
• Early treatment of conditions like epilepsy.
• Providing child with nutritious food.
• Adequate environmental stimulation and education.
• Protection from accidents and pollutants like lead and mercury.
• Period medical checkups for the child for early detection and intervention of metabolic and endocrine disease etc.

Other Important Factors –

• Avoid child bearing before 20 yrs and after 35 yrs age.
• Prevent marriages between relatives.
• Advise the affected families regarding risks of genetic diseases.
• Educating the public regarding all aspects of mental handicap.