Epidemiology of cerebral palsy among children in Ghana.

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The epidemiology of cerebral palsy (CP) is poorly described in Ghana. These data are crucial for evidence-based intervention for children with CP in the country. We aimed to describe the epidemiology of CP among children in Ghana. We established the first institution-based register of children with CP in Ghana (Ghana CP Register-GCPR). Children with confirmed CP aged < 18 years were registered following a detailed neurodevelopmental assessment. Socio-demographics, risk factors, predominant motor type and topography, gross motor function classification system (GMFCS), associated impairments, education and rehabilitation status were documented. Between October 2018 and February 2020, 455 children were registered (mean [standard deviation {s.d.}] age at assessment: 5.9 [4.1] years). Preterm birth and low birthweight were reported in 52.0% and 21.1% children respectively. Most children (79.6%) had a pre- or perinatally acquired CP and the mean (s.d.) age of CP diagnosis was 22.2 (21.6) months. Overall, 55.9% of children had spastic tri- or quadriplegia, 60.5% had GMFCS level III-V and 70.3% had ≥ 1 associated impairment. However, 20.5% had never received rehabilitation services and 69.6% of school-aged children in the GCPR were not enrolled in schools. The study findings indicate a high burden of severe motor and associated impairment among children with CP in Ghana which highlights the need for tailored interventions to improve health and well-being of children with CP in the country. The study highlights the need for interventions to improve functional outcome, health and well-being of children with CP in Ghana.