Speech disorders in preschool children in Republic of North Macedonia – cross sectional study

Abstract Background Speech communication is a complex process based on the function of central nervous system, and also speech mechanisms conditioned controlled by auditory perception, verbal memory, intellectual activity peripheral apparatus. The aim this study was to determine prevalence most common phonological articulation disorders in preschool children, from 4-6 years old. Methods A cross-sectional conducted during 2018 year representative sample 550 children aged 4 - 6 years, who attend institutions-kindergartens city Skopje. used standardized tests: Global Articulation Test (GAT) Triple (vocals, plasia, africative, fricative, nasal, lateral), questionnaire filled out social worker at kindergarten for socioeconomic status child's health condition. Results Using GAT, we found that 260 (47.3%) didn't have disorders, 290 (52.7%) had disorders. analysis gender-based data showed higher percentage 57% boys 46.9% girls. highest disorder sigmatism with 24.5% 20.4% girls, rhotachism 17.8% 16.5% Lambdacism 8.3% 4.2% mixed form (sigmatism, rotacism, lambdacism) 2.4% 3.5% Conclusions 52.7%, 57.9% or every second child kindergarden age has disorder. These findings indicate treatment should be started appropriate services as soon possible, because early detection enable normal development. Key messages are important public issue these will require some cases emotional behavioral support, not only speech-related intervention. gives more confidence build his intellect.