6 October has been established as World Cerebral Palsy Day, following an initiative by non-governmental organisations associated with the condition. The day aims to promote self-affirmation for people living with cerebral palsy and to raise awareness among society and institutions about the challenges they face.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy is a group of developmental disorders affecting movement and posture. It is caused by brain injury or abnormal brain development that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth, or within the first two years of life.
Although the brain injury is non-progressive — meaning it does not worsen after its initial onset — the impact on daily life can increase over time as the person grows and faces new challenges.
Symptoms and challenges
The difficulties associated with cerebral palsy vary from mild to very severe. Individuals may experience issues with movement, speech, posture, balance, vision, hearing, touch, cognition, or communication, though their intellectual ability is often unaffected.
Treatment and support
People with cerebral palsy can benefit from specialised physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and hydrotherapy, through individualised rehabilitation programmes that help improve mobility, communication, and overall quality of life.
It is estimated that around 17 million people worldwide live with cerebral palsy today.
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Source: SanSimera.gr
