Risk factors for spastic cerebral palsy: a retrospective cross-sectional study and literature review

Abstract

Background: Cerebral Palsy (CP), a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder, primarily manifests in early childhood, with spastic CP constituting 70% of cases. This study investigates spastic CP risk factors through a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of medical records and literature review to guide clinical strategies for reducing its incidence.

Methods: The study analyzed the records of patients with spastic CP from Xi'an Encephalopathy Hospital affiliated to Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, between October 2021 and September 2022, aged 4-14 years old. Demographic and risk factor analysis was conducted among 231 patients, utilizing count data and percentages. Additionally, recent literature on spastic CP risk factors was reviewed.

Results: Among the 231 cases, 55.41% were male, and 52.84% were urban residents. Age distribution was most concentrated at 4 years old (18.18%), followed by 5 years old (11.69%), and 8 years old (11.26%). Disease duration ranged from less than 3 months (10.82%) to 12-24 months (30.30%). Identified risk factors included neonatal diseases such as neonatal asphyxia (63.20%), premature birth (49.78%), and low birth weight (49.35%). Maternal prenatal illnesses and medication use (4.76%), delivery methods including cesarean Sect. (32.90% preterm), and environmental pollutants were also significant.

Conclusion: This study enhances the understanding of spastic CP risk factors and provides actionable insights for prevention and management. Key recommendations include improved prenatal care (e.g., regular monitoring and infection control) and reducing maternal exposure to modifiable risks like environmental toxins, alcohol, and unnecessary medications. These findings support earlier, personalized interventions for at-risk cases.

Keywords: Review; Risk factors; Spastic cerebral palsy.