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Nutritional status and growth pattern in children with cerebral palsy: A retrospective study from Qatar

Murad Abdulhafid Salem1, Eman H A Abuhassan1, Naeema Hassan Abdulla Al Dahneem1

  • 1Pediatric Rehabilitation Department, Qatar Rehabilitation Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.

Qatar Medical Journal
|March 4, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Nearly half of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Qatar are underweight. Short stature and low weight are key indicators of undernutrition, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve growth and health outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Neurology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Children with cerebral palsy (CP) face significant malnutrition risks due to feeding and motor challenges.
  • Nutritional status is vital for growth and health in children with CP, yet data from Qatar is scarce.
  • This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding nutritional status in Qatari children with CP.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the nutritional status and growth patterns of children with CP in Qatar.
  • To identify factors associated with nutritional status in this population.
  • To inform targeted interventions for improving health outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective observational study of 150 children (aged 3-14 years) with CP in Qatar.
  • Nutritional status evaluated using anthropometric measurements (height, weight, BMI) against WHO growth charts.
  • Statistical analysis (χ² tests) to explore associations between BMI and demographic/clinical variables.

Main Results:

  • A high prevalence of underweight (48.7%) and underweight BMI (35.3%) was observed.
  • Significant associations found between BMI and nationality, weight status, and height status.
  • No significant associations between BMI and gender or motor type; short stature and low weight are indicators of undernutrition.

Conclusions:

  • Undernutrition is a major issue for children with CP in Qatar, especially those with short stature and low weight.
  • Regular monitoring and tailored nutritional interventions are crucial for this vulnerable group.
  • Addressing nutritional deficits can improve growth and prevent complications in children with CP.
Abstract

Keywords:
Cerebral palsy, child growth and development, growth pattern, nutrition, nutritional status, pediatric nutrition

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