Prevalence and incidence of chronic conditions among adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

MacKieth Press Plain Language Summaries Web Page with a picture of two children hugging on the top right.
What Did the researchers Learn? 

The aim of this study was to investigate how common chronic conditions are in adults with cerebral palsy. Chronic conditions are long-term medical conditions that require ongoing management.

The study found that adults with cerebral palsy are more likely to have chronic conditions than the general population and are more likely to develop chronic conditions than the general population. Common chronic conditions that adults with cerebral palsy had included musculoskeletal conditions (e.g. scoliosis), respiratory conditions (e.g. asthma), cardiovascular diseases (e.g. high blood pressure), and mental health conditions (e.g. depression).

HOW did they learn this?

The researchers looked at previous studies that investigated chronic conditions in adults with cerebral palsy. They found 69 studies that met their criteria. The researchers then analyzed the data from these studies to determine how common chronic conditions are in this population.

What Does this mean?

Overall, this study highlights the importance of monitoring and managing chronic conditions in adults with cerebral palsy. It also provides important information that can help healthcare professionals better understand the health needs of this population.

 

Reference

Ryan, JM, Albairami, F, Hamilton, T, Cope, N, Amirmudin, NA, Manikandan, M, et al. Prevalence and incidence of chronic conditions among adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2023; 65: 1174–1189. https://doi.org/10.1111/dmcn.15526

These data from 18 countries, which provide an international perspective, may be used to promote awareness, identify targets for intervention, and inform the development of appropriate supports for adults with CP.

Jennifer Ryan, PhD