(P17-056-25) Youth Enrolled in Part C Early Intervention Programs May Experience Prolonged Imbalanced Nutrient Intake: An Analysis of NHANES 2017–2018

Objectives: Many children with developmental delays or disabilities (e.g., autism spectrum disorder) enrolled in Early Intervention (EI) programs (Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) experience food selectivity and problematic mealtime behaviors, potentially increasing their risk of nutrition inadequacies. This examined longitudinal associations between EI history and dietary intake in a nationally representative sample of youth aged 6-15. We hypothesized that there would be significant differences in dietary nutrient intake between youth who received EI services and those who did not.

Methods: Dietary data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018 were analyzed. EI enrollment history, unique to the NHANES 2017-2018 dataset, along with demographic data, were included in the analysis. Calories, percentages of calories from macronutrients, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients were compared between youth (aged 6-15 years) with history of EI participation when they were 0-3 years old and those without (N=41,201,460; Mean age=10.5 years; 52.8% male; 51.0% non-Hispanic White). General linear models were conducted, applying sample weights and controlling for demographic characteristics.

Results: Approximately 23% of the population reported a history of enrollment in EI programs. EI history was significantly associated with lower intake of beta-carotene (752.6mcg vs. 1317.8mcg, p< 0.001) and iron (12.0mg vs. 14.2mg, p=0.042) compared to those without EI. Additionally, EI history was associated with a higher percent energy from fat compared to those without EI (35.8% vs. 34.5%, p=0.031, respectively). Other nutrients did not show any significant differences between the groups.

Conclusions: Youth enrolled in EI programs may experience persistent feeding or dietary challenges through school-age and adolescence. These results suggest potential imbalanced nutrient intake among youth who had EI programs during early childhood due to developmental delays or disabilities. While further longitudinal research is needed to confirm these findings, early nutrition interventions through EI programs may help prevent nutrient inadequacies and related health conditions such as obesity in this population.

Funding Sources: None