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Increase in cerebral palsy in normal birthweight babies
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Congenital cerebral palsy rates in North East England showed a gradual rise from 1968-1975, despite a decrease in very low birthweight infants. This trend was particularly noted in infants over 2.5 kg at birth.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Congenital cerebral palsy (CCP) is a significant developmental disorder.
- Understanding trends in CCP incidence is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in congenital cerebral palsy incidence.
- To investigate changes in CCP rates based on birth weight and subtype.
Main Methods:
- A register of 421 children with CCP born between 1960-1975 was compiled.
- Data from a defined geographical area in North East England was analyzed.
- Incidence rates were examined in relation to birth weight and CCP classification.
Main Results:
- A decrease in CCP rates was observed among very low birthweight infants (1964-1975).
- An increase in CCP rates occurred in infants weighing >2.5 kg at birth during the latter study period.
- Overall CCP rates gradually rose between 1968-1975, with a notable increase in severe CCP cases.
Conclusions:
- The overall incidence of congenital cerebral palsy showed a gradual increase.
- Shifts in CCP rates were observed across different birth weight categories.
- Changes in CCP incidence may correlate with evolving perinatal mortality patterns.