Increasing Awareness of Pediatric Feeding Disorder
Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) affects over 1 in 37 children under the age of 5 in the United States, presenting significant challenges for children and their families. Defined as “impaired oral intake that is not age appropriate, associated with medical, nutritional, feeding skill, and/or psychosocial dysfunction,” PFD impacts nutrition, growth, and overall development. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and Feeding Matters are leading efforts to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and improve treatment for PFD through education, advocacy, and research.