Prevalence and incidence of chronic conditions among adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Reviewed by Prue Morgan

Citation: Ryan, JM, Albairami, F, Hamilton, T, Cope, N, Amirmudin, NA, Manikandan, M, et al. Prevalence and incidence of chronic conditions among adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2023; 00: 1– 16. https://doi.org/10.1111/dmcn.15526

Study type/population: This systematic review collated information relating to the prevalence or incidence of one or more chronic conditions affecting adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

Key findings: From the sixty-five included studies representing data from 18 countries, consistent evidence arose that adults with CP were more likely than adults without CP to have and develop several chronic health conditions. These included asthma, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, hypertension, ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, osteoarthritis, and chronic kidney disease. More specifically, at least 20% of adults with CP had: depression (21%); anxiety (21%); mood affective disorders (23%); asthma (24%); hypertension (26%); epilepsy (28%); urinary incontinence (32%); malnutrition (38%); and scoliosis (46%).

Translation to practice: Adults with CP are more likely to develop physical and mental chronic conditions than adults without CP. Experiencing a chronic health condition may exacerbate barriers adults with CP already face to participating in all areas of life. This information about chronic conditions in adults with CP can empower adults with knowledge to manage their CP, reduce their risk of developing chronic conditions, and advocate for support. It is also essential for increasing awareness among health professionals, identify targets for intervention and justify the development of health services and support.