Recently, research professors from Michigan Medicine – the University of Michigan shared new commentary around cerebral palsy. Specifically, the commentary focuses on current research, policies, and care associated with adults with cerebral palsy. The researchers note that, for many years, care has centered around pediatric patients. However, adults are unable to receive adequate care. Thus, the commentary, published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, advocates for improved care and awareness within the healthcare industry.

Commentary

Within the commentary, the authors explain that:

Evidence demonstrates that the number of adults who live with CP and other childhood-onset disabilities is increasing, and that they experience significant physical and mental health inequalities as they grow up. As a result, they have lower quality of life and are at risk for dying at younger ages — often from undiagnosed, preventable, noncommunicable diseases.

The authors note that some of the difficulties associated with poor care include a lack of medical research into adult cerebral palsy and how it affects lifespan, health, and quality of life (QOL); difficulties coordinating health insurance and specialists; and a low number of specialists designed to help these adults. Says one author:

“People with cerebral palsy grow up. We should be there to help…at every stage.”

Thus, the authors recommend that additional research is performed; patient advocacy and health navigator groups form to assist patients throughout their lives; and more policies are enacted to promote a higher standard of care.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a neurological movement disorder characterized by impaired coordination and muscle control. Typically, the condition is caused by damage to the brain, often in birth or within the first two years of life. Damage could potentially be caused by genetic mutations, a fetal stroke, infant or maternal infections, or traumatic head injury during infancy. Symptoms vary, as do people’s functional abilities. Symptoms and characteristics include:

• Seizures
• Difficulty walking or performing precise motions
• Speech delays or difficulties
• Intellectual or developmental delays
• Urinary incontinence
• Excessive drooling
• Stiff muscles with either normal or exaggerated reflexes
• Variations in muscle tone
• Lack of coordination
• Favoring one side of the body
• Vision and hearing difficulties

Learn more about cerebral palsy.