The vast majority of children with the development disorder, dyspraxia, are missing out on crucial treatments as a result of long public waiting lists, a new survey has shown.

The survey was carried out by Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland, the national information and support organisation for people affected by this condition.

Dyspraxia is a form of development coordination disorder (DCD) that affects children and adults. It is characterised by difficulties with thinking out, planning and carrying out sensory or motor tasks.

For example, symptoms of dyspraxia in a pre-school child can include reaching milestones, such as sitting, standing and walking, later than their peers, difficulty walking up and down stairs, falling over frequently, poor pencil grip, speech problems and an inability to do jigsaws or sorting games.

The condition is estimated to affect around 8% of the population, however it can often go undiagnosed due to its varied symptoms.

According to the survey findings, 82% of affected Irish children are missing out on crucial treatments and therapies because of long public waiting lists and an inability to access private treatment due to financial constraints.

"Irish children with dyspraxia/DCD are at the forefront of Ireland's two tier health system. Dyspraxia is a neurological condition in which early intervention is vital, but due to the length of the waiting lists, many parents opt for private occupational therapy, physiotherapy or speech and language therapy,' explained Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland chairperson, Ciara Garvan.

The survey reveled that 49% of families are forced to sacrifice basic necessities in order to afford timely treatment for their affected child, while 39% of children did not receive the correct treatment because their parents were unable to pay to access private services.

It also revealed that 76% of affected families do not receive any financial assistance from the Government.

While there is no cure for dyspraxia, the earlier a child is diagnosed and treated, the better. Specialists such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists can assist children with overcoming the difficulties they may face.

This issue is being highlighted as part of Dyspraxia Awareness Week, which runs from October 9-15. For more information on this event and Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland, click here