Link Between Cerebral Palsy and Obesity

Research is currently being done regarding the link that many doctors believe is apparent between children with disabilities like cerebral palsy and obesity.

According to reports, more children than ever are overweight in America, which is putting them at serious risk for when they reach adulthood.

Researchers Analyze Link

Children who are born with cerebral palsy often face additional problems from their developing peers such as genetic propensity to be overweight and the lack of physical activities that are available to them.

James H. Rimmer and his co-authors compiled their research in a commentary regarding obesity and children with disabilities for the Journal of Adolescent Health.

Their research shows that children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida and other disabilities have a higher reported prevalence of being overweight than children without disabilities.

“The substantial physical, social, and attitudinal barriers experienced by many youth with disabilities presents a challenge to health professionals and researchers to find innovative ways to reduce, or prevent, obesity in this undeserved and marginalized population,” the commentary states.

Need for More Physical Activity

Rimmer points out that strategies need to be created for learning and physical activity for children with disabilities that go beyond a school day.

For instance, Cindy Combs, a special Ed teacher in Kansas has her students wear snowshoes in the grass to increase their heart rate.

(Source: Education Week)

Do you have a child who is living with cerebral palsy? If so, please contact a cerebral palsy attorney who will enable you and your family to get the legal advice and guidance that you need.