Which factors are associated with a higher incidence of Developmental Coordination Disorder?

The association of prematurity and low birth weight with a higher incidence of Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is well-supported by research in pediatric health. Premature infants often experience a variety of developmental challenges due to their early birth, which can lead to an increased risk of motor skill difficulties as they grow. Similarly, low birth weight has been linked to adverse developmental outcomes, including coordination problems.

These factors impact neurological development and can affect motor control and coordination skills that are crucial for activities of daily living. As these children grow, the challenges associated with DCD can become more pronounced, affecting their performance in physical activities and potentially leading to difficulties in social interactions and academic achievement.

In contrast, the other options do not consistently relate to DCD as strongly as prematurity and low birth weight. While higher IQ and reading skills may intersect with various developmental issues, they are not direct risk factors for DCD. Genetic factors alone also do not account for the broad environmental influences on motor development. As for age and physical activity level, while they can impact coordination, they don't inherently increase the incidence of DCD on their own when considering a broader population.