The progression of BMI status over time in Irish ambulant children with cerebral palsy

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Abstract
Background An increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in children has been reported globally. Most studies examining the trajectory of BMI in children over time have tended to focus on children with typical development. Our group previously reported static prevalence rates in children with cerebral palsy. However, concern remains within our multi-disciplinary team that progression into higher BMI categories is apparent as children with cerebral palsy age. Aims To examine the progression of BMI status as children with cerebral palsy age and determine the severity of obesity. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of the National Movement Laboratory database yielding 574 participants that met inclusion criteria. BMI was calculated retrospectively, and age adjusted BMI centiles were used for analysis. A chi-square test for homogeneity was used to compare differences in proportions. Differences in age, weight and height between assessments were assessed using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results No statistically significant differences were present in proportions for any BMI classifications between first and repeat assessments. Small increases were evident in both the obesity (7.8 to 11.5%) and overweight (10.8 to 12.4%) categories. Eighty percent of children remained in a normal BMI category between assessments while 56% remained either overweight or moved into a category of obesity. Conclusion The majority of children with cerebral palsy who presented with a normal BMI at first assessment maintained this BMI classification at follow-up. The results of this study highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy BMI status.

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