Caregiver-reported health-related quality of life of children with cerebral palsy and their families and its association with gross motor function: A South Indian study.

INTRODUCTION

In children, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) includes parental impact and family functioning along with concepts of illness, functional status, mental health, and comfort. We are focusing on the impact of cerebral palsy (CP) on children's HRQOL and their families, and its relationship with gross motor dysfunction.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

CP children aged 3-10 years under regular neurology follow-up were enrolled. The HRQOL and motor severity were prospectively assessed using lifestyle assessment questionnaire-CP and gross motor function classification systems, respectively.

RESULTS

One hundred children participated in this study. Thirty-three percent of children had good, 22% had mildly affected, whereas 45% had moderately to severely affected HRQOL. A significant association is present between gross motor function classification system and HRQOL.

CONCLUSION

HRQOL in CP and their caregivers is highly impaired. The degree of impairment is associated with physical independence, mobility, clinical burden, and social integration dimensions. Therapies targeting these dimensions and associated comorbidities will improve the HRQOL. Gross motor function classification system is a good indicator of HRQOL.