Introduction: PEDS^® is a 10 questions tool used to elicit parental developmental concerns across a number of domains and hence to identify high risk children.

Objective: Testing the validity and reliability of translated PEDS^® and its use in Malaysia as a developmental screening tool.

Method: PEDS^® was translated into Malay and Mandarin by linguistics and medical professionals, followed by focussed group discussion. A cross sectional study involving 120 children between 1 and 6 years of age was conducted between 15 February and 31 May 2012 in Sibu. Caregivers completed the translated PEDS^® and answered questions regarding the acceptability and usefulness. PEDS^® was repeated 2 weeks later while the children underwent Griffiths Mental Development Scales.

Result: Till 3 May 2012, a total of 86 caregivers were recruited (46 used Malay PEDS^®, 40 for Mandarin). Preliminary data showed 26% of caregivers reporting 2 or more significant concerns and 17% have no concern. Preliminary analysis showed significant correlation between PEDS^® and global developmental disabilities and/or language disorder as assessed by the gold standard test (p <0.001), with sensitivity 73.5% and positive predictive value of 67.9%. Agreement test showed high correlation of the intra-raters reliability. Almost all (97.7%) caregivers rated the PEDS^® as very easy or easy to understand and complete; 90.7% found it acceptable as a developmental screening tool, and 62.1% believe it is very useful for Malaysian health professional.

Conclusions: Final result will be presented and relevant recommendation made to help improving the early detection of children at risk in Malaysia.