Quality of life of adolescents with CP who attended an inclusive school in Bangladesh

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of lifelong neurological disorders caused by brain injury during development, often affecting posture and mobility. Common causes include infections, birth complications, and trauma, with spastic paralysis being the most common impairment. CP is frequently associated with other neurological issues like epilepsy, sensory, and cognitive challenges. Objectives: This study aims to assess the quality of life (QoL) of adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) attending an inclusive school in Bangladesh. The objectives include evaluating their communication skills, gross motor function, and manual functional abilities, as well as understanding their level of work engagement and community participation. The study seeks to gain insights into the overall quality of life experienced by these adolescents with CP. Methodology: The study design was cross-sectional, involving 34 conveniently selected participants from the community. Data were collected using a questionnaire, and level of Functional ability FMS, GMFCS, CFCS, KIDSCREEN-27 using quality oflife (QoL) of Adolescences with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Quantitative descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS software version 26.0, with associations evaluated using Chi-square and crosstab. Result: In this study adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) in Bangladesh face significant challenges in physical wellbeing, psychological support, and social inclusion. Severe motor impairments affect mobility, while limited peer support leads to social isolation. High non-attendance in inclusive schools and cultural barriers restrict employment opportunities. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, such as better physical therapy, social support, and improved access to education and employment, to enhance the quality of life for these adolescents. Conclusion: This study evaluated the quality of life (QoL) of adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) in an inclusive school in Bangladesh, revealing poor physical wellbeing, low psychological support, and social isolation. Communication needs varied, and school non-attendance negatively affected QoL scores. Limited job opportunities due to physical and cultural barriers led most to rely on family support and disability benefits. Keyword: Cerebral palsy (CP), Quality oflife (QoL), Inclusive school