WORLD CEREBRAL PALSY DAY-
OCTOBER 6
Cerebral
palsy is a condition of movement and posture. It is a dynamic representation of
a static state. In cerebral palsy, the brain develops differently in different
children. The injured brain will have other expressions in different children.
Some children might get mental impairment, while some may not. But the bottom
line is that the disorder of movements and posture remains the same, yet it can
be severe, moderate or mild.Cerebral Palsy is one of the least known
disabilities, and people with cerebral palsy are frequently out of sight, out
of mind, and out of options in communities globally, so it's important to
consult a neurologist in case of any Trouble with vision or trouble in feeling
sensation. Cerebral palsy is the most common type of childhood motor
dysfunction. Cerebral palsy is mostly caused by injury to the growing brain
during pregnancy or shortly after birth. It is a life-long condition that does
not deteriorate over time.
Globally,
about 1.7 crores of people have some form of cerebral palsy, according to the
Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation (CPARF). Another 35 crores of
people are closely related to a child or adult with cerebral palsy. Nearly
15-20% of physically disabled children are affected by Cerebral Palsy. In
India, the estimated incidence is around 3/1000 live births’1 in 3 will have
extremely limited or no walking ability (and will need assistance devices, such
as wheelchairs)1 in 4 will have bladder control issues1 in 4 will not able to
speak1 in 5 will have a sleep disorder3 in 4 will experience chronic pain
lifelong1 in 10 will have notable vision problems
As
per a 2022 research report, the birth prevalence for pre-/perinatal cerebral
palsy in regions from high-income countries (HICs) was 1.5 per 1000 live births
and 1.6 per 1000 live births when post neonatal CP was included. A majority
(82.9%) of the children with Cerebral palsy (CP) had spastic Cerebral palsy
(CP). More than half (58.9%) of the children with Cerebral palsy (CP) could
walk independently.Cerebral palsy (CP) was much more common in black children
than in white. Hispanic and white children were equally likely to have CP.
According to a research study, 41% of children with CP were unable to crawl,
walk, run, or play, and 31% required the use of special equipment such as
walkers or wheelchairs.Cerebral Palsy is one of the least understood
disabilities due to a lack of awareness regarding this condition. The world of
cerebral palsy creates a platform to emphasise awareness with respect to the
disease, diagnosis and treatment, in addition to addressing the challenges
cerebral palsy patients face.
The
Cerebral Palsy Alliance in 2012 declared October 6 as World Cerebral Palsy Day
in order to bring together people with cerebral palsy (CP), their friends,
families, and organizations. It also aims to ensure that children and adults
with cerebral palsy have the same rights, opportunities, and access as everyone
else globally.This year, 2026, the World Cerebral Palsy Day theme is “Unique
and United”. This theme highlights the
individuality, lived experiences, and aspirations of every person with cerebral
palsy. It also emphasizes the strength of collective action in advancing
inclusion, equal opportunities, accessibility, and meaningful change.
Prof. John Kurakar
