Prevalence and age of diagnosis of neurodevelopmental conditions among Asian populations in Aotearoa New Zealand

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PURPOSE: Asian populations are among the fastest-growing ethnic groups in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), yet little is known about the prevalence of neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs) within these communities. The study compared the prevalence and age of diagnosis of NDCs (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD], autism, communication and language disabilities [CLDs], intellectual disability [ID], motor disabilities [MDs], and specific learning disabilities [SLDs]) between NZ-born Asian and non-Asian populations, and differences across Asian subgroups. METHODS: A national cross-sectional analysis was conducted using linked administrative microdata from the Integrated Data Infrastructure, covering the 2021/22 estimated resident population aged 0–24 years (N = 1,334,247). Following adjustment for socioeconomic factors, standardized NDC rates were calculated for Asian and non-Asian populations and Asian subgroups (Indian, Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Other Asian). RESULTS: Lower standardized rates of NDCs were identified among Asian (2.85%, 95% CI [2.77, 2.94]) compared to non-Asian (4.52%, 95% CI [4.49, 4.56]) participants. Most notably, rates of ADHD (1.1%, 95% CI [1.05, 1.16] vs. 2.94%, 95% CI [2.91, 2.97]) and ID (0.34%, 95% CI [0.31, 0.38] vs. 0.58%, 95% CI [0.57, 0.60]) were significantly lower among Asian participants. Among Asian sub-groups, rates of NDCs were lowest for Chinese children, with particularly low rates of Autism, MDs and SLDs. CONCLUSION: Findings highlight substantial differences in NDC rates between NZ-born Asian and non-Asian ethnicities, suggesting that socioeconomic context, cultural perceptions, and diagnostic pathways may influence identification patterns across and between Asian subgroups. Culturally responsive approaches are critical for equitable NDC identification and support.

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