Data about number of children with Cerebral Palsy may lead to additional research
According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of cerebral palsy may be higher than previous estimates. A report released last week suggests that about 3.6 out of every 1,000 eight year old children, or about 1 in 278, have cerebral palsy. Prior numbers suggested about 1 in 666 children suffer from the motor disability. Many hope that this data will lead to additional funding for research which could uncover information to help prevent cerebral palsy or lead to new treatments.
The CDC study was released in the current edition of Pediatrics: Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Researchers reviewed data from three sites around the country to determine the prevalence of cerebral palsy among 8 year old children in 2002. The highest rates of cerebral palsy were found among boys, African-Americans and those living in low and middle-income neighborhoods. The lowest number of children with cerebral palsy were found among Hispanic children.
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder which can be caused by damage to the brain during, before or shortly after birth. Once the child’s brain damage has been sustained, there is no currently known cure, and the disability can lead to severe difficulties with movement control and muscle coordination. It has also been commonly associated with seizures, sensory impairments and cognitive limitations.
>>INFORATION: Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
Many consider cerebral palsy research to be a forgotten field, and this report could prompt more scientists to take an interest in investigating cerebral palsy and attract the type of funding necessary to lead to a medical breakthrough. Current cerebral palsy treatment options, which are designed to help children lead a more productive and independent life, have generally not changed much over the past 50 years and the lack of funding for national cerebral palsy research has been frustrating for doctors and parents of children with CP.
CEREBRAL PALSY LAWYERS
While the development of cerebral palsy can be caused by a variety of factors, in some cases the condition is directly linked to a medical mistake made by a hospital, doctor or nurse at the time of birth or during prenatal care. The Cerebral Palsy lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. investigate potential claims on behalf of families of children with CP to help determine if financial compensation may be available. If your child or family member have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
