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Cerebral palsy in Malta 1981 to 1990
1St Luke's Hospital, Malta.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|September 9, 1999
Summary
Cerebral palsy (CP) prevalence in Malta is similar to the UK but has distinct syndrome rates. Risk factors are typical, yet CP disproportionately affects children of unskilled manual workers, indicating a social gradient.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex neurological disorder affecting movement and posture.
- Understanding CP prevalence and risk factors is crucial for public health interventions.
- Previous studies have varied in methodology and population focus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the period prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) in a defined Maltese population.
- To identify risk factors associated with CP in this cohort.
- To compare CP rates and types with other developed countries.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort study of 55,200 children born between 1981-1990 in Malta and Gozo.
- Case definition of CP used strict criteria; syndromes classified using the Swedish classification.
- Matched case-control analysis for risk factor assessment, utilizing medical records and parental interviews.
Main Results:
- The period prevalence rate of CP was calculated for the Maltese islands.
- Identified risk factors were consistent with international findings.
- A significant social gradient was observed, with higher CP rates in children of unskilled manual workers.
Conclusions:
- Malta's CP prevalence is comparable to the UK, but with a higher incidence of spastic tetraplegias.
- Risk factors for CP in this population align with those in other developed nations.
- Socioeconomic status appears to be a significant factor influencing CP risk.