Definition for cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a umbrella term encompassing a group of non-progressive, non-contagious neurological disorders that cause physical disability in human development, specifically the human movement and posture.

The incidence in developed countries is approximately 2-2.5 per 1000 live births, and incidence has not declined over the last 60 years despite medical advances (such as electro-fetal monitoring). Cerebral palsy can occur during pregnancy (about 75 percent), during childbirth (about 5 percent) or after birth (about 15 percent). Eighty percent of causes are unknown; for the small number where cause is known this can include infection, malnutrition, and/or head trauma in very early childhood. It is a non-progressive disorder, but secondary orthopedic deformities, such as hip dislocation and scoliosis of the spine, are common. There is no known cure for CP. Medical intervention is limited to the treatment and prevention of complications possible from CP's consequences. Overall, cerebral palsy ranks among the most costly congenital conditions in the world to manage effectively. less