Risk Factors of Cerebral Palsy Among Term Baby Attended at Crp: A Case Control Study
Rumi Akter
Introduction: Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the leading causes of chronic childhood disability, especially in developing countries where healthcare resources are limited.
Objectives: This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with CP among term-born infants in Bangladesh
Methodology: An unmatched case-control design was used, including 30 term-born children with CP and 30 healthy term-born controls attending the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP). Data were collected via structured interviews with mothers, covering socio-demographic factors, antenatalhistory, intrapartum events, and postnatal complications. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to measure associations.
Results: It showed significant associations between CP and birth asphyxia (OR=74.55, CI=4.16–1335.5), birth injury (OR=12.42, CI=1.44–101.49), and neonatal jaundice/convulsions (OR=19.46, CI=1.05–358.40). Hospital delivery was also significantly associated (OR=6.00, CI=1.48–24.29). Maternal age below 25 years, consanguineous marriage, and history of miscarriage showed elevated risk but were not statistically significant. These findings highlight the urgent need to improve obstetric care, prevent birth trauma, ensure timely management of asphyxia, and strengthen neonatal care services.
Conclusion & Recommendation: Early detection and intervention programs are crucial to minimize long-term disability and improve quality of life for children at risk.
