Associated impairments among children with cerebral palsy: findings from a cross-sectional hospital-based study in Vietnam

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the associated impairments of cerebral palsy (CP) and their correlates among children with CP in Vietnam.

Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study using hospital-based surveillance.

Setting: National Children's Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam between June and November 2017.

Participants: 765 children with CP were recruited.

Outcome measures: We assessed clinical characteristics of CP, associated impairments (epilepsy, intellectual, visual, hearing, speech impairments) and their correlates. We performed descriptive analyses (median, IQR and proportion). χ² test and Fisher's exact test were used for categorical variables. Univariate logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression models were established and associated impairments were included as independent variables.

Results: The median age of children was 1.7 years (IQR=2.7). Quadriplegia was the predominant subtype (69.5%) and 46.5% were at Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV-V. Of children, 76.3% had ≥one associated impairment, most commonly speech or intellectual impairments (59.1% and 57.8%, respectively). Severity of motor impairment, type of CP, maternal and perinatal factors (eg, gestational age, perinatal asphyxia, timing of injury causing CP) were associated with greater risk of associated impairments.

Conclusion: Children with CP have a high burden of associated impairments. Findings from our study will inform the development and implementation of appropriate screening and interventions and reduce the long-term adverse effects of these impairments on individuals with CP and their socioeconomic impact.

Keywords: Community child health; Developmental neurology & neurodisability; EPIDEMIOLOGY.

Figure 1. Associated impairments among children with CP. CP, cerebral palsy.