Eating and drinking ability and nutritional status in adults with cerebral palsy

Aim To describe eating and drinking ability in adults with cerebral palsy (CP) relative to sex, age, subtype, and severity of gross motor and hand function and nutritional status. Method This was a cross-sectional study based on data of 2035 adults with CP, median age 26 years (range 18-78 years). The Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System (EDACS), Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), and Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) were used in addition to subtype, body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), skin fold thickness, and gastrostomy. Linear regression models were used to estimate associations between body weight and the other variables. Results More than half of the adults (52.5%) eat and drink safely and 32.4% have dysphagia with limitations to eating and drinking safety. Weight, height, and BMI decreased with increasing EDACS levels. In EDACS level V, 86% had a gastrostomy, 23.4% in EDACS levels III to V were underweight, whereas 42.3% in EDACS levels I to II had a BMI over 25, indicating overweight or obesity. Increasing EDACS levels and need of support during meals were associated with lower body weight. Interpretation Adults with CP should be routinely screened and treated for dysphagia to avoid nutritional complications. Being dependent on others during mealtimes is a risk factor for low body weight.

Automated summary

This study aimed to examine the eating and drinking ability in adults with cerebral palsy (CP) in relation to various factors such as sex, age, subtype, gross motor and hand function, and nutritional status. The results showed that more than half of the adults could eat and drink safely, but a significant portion had dysphagia. Body weight, height, and BMI decreased as the eating and drinking ability level decreased. The study suggests the importance of routine screening and treatment for dysphagia in adults with CP to prevent nutritional complications. The need for support during mealtimes was also associated with lower body weight.