Cerebral palsy in the Middle East : epidemiology, management, and quality of life

Sami Mukhdari Mushta, Gulam Khandaker, Rosalie Power, Nadia Badawi

Research output: Chapter in Book / Conference PaperChapter

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP), a physical disability affecting posture and movement, is the leading cause of childhood physical disability and affects approximately 2 to 2.5 children per 1,000 births equating to more than 17 million people worldwide. The type and severity of motor impairment caused by CP is different for each child and is frequently accompanied by comorbidities such as chronic pain, intellectual disability, and epilepsy. The understanding and responses to CP vary substantially in the Middle East, due largely to the diverse language, cultural, religious, geographic, and economic conditions in the region. A growing body of epidemiological research informs practice in some regions; however, other regions lack data to guide service planning, delivery, and policy. Notably, low- and middle-income economies account for more than half of Middle Eastern countries and typically report a higher prevalence and severity of CP. Data from Middle Eastern countries is limited, and public health infrastructure in these settings is often poorest. Improved understanding and multidisciplinary collaboration is required to extend knowledge and improve practice including in the areas of early diagnosis and intervention in order to improve the lives of children with CP in the Middle East. In this chapter, we discuss epidemiological factors including the prevalence, clinical characteristics, causes, and risk factors of CP in the Middle East. We review current understanding of the health and well-being, including quality of life of children with CP, and highlight successful methods for the management including early intervention and rehabilitation of children with CP. Finally, we discuss the legislative and political landscapes that impact the lives of children with CP in the Middle East.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Healthcare in the Arab World
EditorsIsmail Laher
Place of PublicationSwitzerland
PublisherSpringer
Pages2539-2572
Number of pages34
ISBN (Electronic)9783030368111
ISBN (Print)9783030368104
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

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