March 2024 is CP Awareness Month. The Cerebral Palsy Advocacy Group launched Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month in 2006 as a way to raise awareness and provide support for those who have cerebral palsy.

According to Cerebral Palsy Care in Ireland it is estimated that 9,500 adults and 3,000 children and young people have cerebral palsy, and that 150 infants are diagnosed with the condition each year. For individuals with cerebral palsy, appropriate treatment pathways and early intervention can have a substantial impact on their quality of life and long-term results.

What is cerebral palsy?

There are numerous distinct manifestations of cerebral palsy in children; some are merely clumsy, while others are unable to walk. Many find it difficult to raise their hands or grasp a crayon, and some find it difficult to breathe or even speak. Seizures, mental impairment, and issues with hearing and vision are also more common in children with cerebral palsy. Therapy and a caring, supporting setting can benefit everyone.

What causes cerebral palsy?

It is often impossible to identify the exact origin of a problem for each given youngster. Nonetheless, medical professionals are aware that the illness might be brought on by anything that obstructs the developing brain. If a pregnant woman smokes, drinks excessively, has diabetes, or contracts German measles (also known as rubella), her risk of developing cerebral palsy increases significantly. Some infants with cerebral palsy may not have received enough oxygen during pregnancy due to a tiny bend in the umbilical cord. Cerebral palsy is far more common in premature babies than in full-term kids; twins or triplets are also more likely to have the illness due to their tendency to experience problems both before and after birth. Cerebral palsy can occasionally result from a brain infection or head trauma.

Source: Cerebral Palsy | Clare Crusaders