An update on the prevalence of cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

Aims The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive update on (1) the overall prevalence of cerebral palsy ( CP ); (2) the prevalence of CP in relation to birthweight; and (3) the prevalence of CP in relation to gestational age. Method A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted and reported, based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses) statement. Population‐based studies on the prevalence of CP in children born in 1985 or after were selected. Statistical analysis was carried out using computer package R, version 2.14. Results A total of 49 studies were selected for this review. The pooled overall prevalence of CP was 2.11 per 1000 live births (95% confidence interval [ CI ] 1.98–2.25). The prevalence of CP stratified by gestational age group showed the highest pooled prevalence to be in children weighing 1000 to 1499g at birth (59.18 per 1000 live births; 95% CI 53.06–66.01), although there was no significant difference on pairwise meta‐regression with children weighing less than 1000g. The prevalence of CP expressed by gestational age was highest in children born before 28 weeks' gestation (111.80 per 1000 live births; 95% CI 69.53–179.78; p <0.0327). Interpretation The overall prevalence of CP has remained constant in recent years despite increased survival of at‐risk preterm infants.