Can Cerebral Palsy Be Prevented?

Cerebral palsy, a group of chronic disorders affecting brain's ability to effectively control movement and posture, currently affects more than 500,000 Americans. Each year about 4,500 children born in American are diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Majority cases of cerebral palsy do not appear to have any particular cause. However, through research, experts have identified some specific events during pregnancy or around the time of birth that can damage motor centers in the developing brain and increase the risk of cerebral palsy.

Several of the causes of cerebral palsy that have been identified through research are preventable or treatable.

Some times malformations of brain is caused due to head injury, often can be prevented by regular use of child safety seats in automobiles and helmets when riding bicycles, skateboards etc. In addition, overseeing young children closely during bathing and swimming, avoiding child abuse and keeping poisons out of reach can greatly reduce the risk of accidental injury. Routine vaccination of babies (with the Hib vaccine) prevents many cases of meningitis, another cause of brain damage in the early months.

Jaundice is one among the few causes identified in research and it can be treated with Phototherapy. In phototherapy, babies are exposed to special blue lights that break down bile pigments, preventing them from building up and causing brain damage. In rare cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.

Identify potential Rh incompatibility in expectant mothers is one more way of reducing the risk of cerebral palsy. Incompatible Rh factor usually is not problematic with first pregnancies, as the mother's body typically produces the unwanted antibodies only after delivery. A special serum given after each delivery can prevent the unwanted production of antibodies.

Rubella or German measles is another cause identified in research, can be prevented if women are vaccinated against this disease before becoming pregnant.

Not all instances of cerebral palsy can be avoided though, but parents and doctors that use their best preventive measures to avoid cerebral palsy can increase their chances of a healthy delivery.

Finally, the best prescription for having a healthy baby is to have regular prenatal care and good nutrition, and to avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug abuse.