Speech communication is complex and is based on the integrity of the central nervous system (CNS) function, as well as the speech mechanisms that are conditioned and controlled by an auditory perception, verbal memory, intellectual activity, but also by the peripheral speech apparatus. If there is a deviation from this integrated complex system in its perfect functioning, speech disorders occur. The aim of the paper was to make a literature review that provides scientific evidence of the most frequent phonological articulation disorders in pre-school children and their public health impact. Materials and Methods: Search in the available databases, such as Pubmed, Google scholar, as well as a review of the references in the papers, doctoral dissertations and master thesis. The following search terms were used: speech, language, disorders, dysphasia, dyslalia, aphasia, public health. Results: A total of 90 abstracts were found, all of them were read and 15 were selected as appropriate for the purpose of our research, as well as in extenso papers that were found and analyzed for this review. Conclusions: According to the available scientific evidence, the development of speech and language is a useful indicator of the overall development of the child, and the cognitive ability is related to the success of the school, and therefore the academic development. This rationale supports pre-school speech and language screening as a part of the basic language routine care for children. Public health impact will be reduced through timely diagnosis, prompt detection, prevention and removal of all factors leading to permanent speech disorders.
Public health aspects of phonological articulation disorders in preschool children - literature review
