Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of malnutrition, nutrient intakes, and deficiencies of Thai children with cerebral palsy (CP), at QSNICH.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in Thai children diagnosed CP at Neuro-clinic, QSNICH. Collecting demographic, previous 3-day food record, feeding, anthropometric data, physical examinations, and laboratory investigations. Nutritional status was assessed using WHO growth references (2007). Nutrient intakes were analyzed by program IMMUCAL.

Results: Twenty-three children diagnosed CP were included. Sixty-one percent were boys and 39% were girls. The mean age was 63±31 months. Sixty-one percent had feeding problems. Twenty cases (87%) were oral feeding. Energy distribution of carbohydrate, fat, and protein was 46, 38, and 16, respectively. Daily intakes of nutrients were inadequate, such as calcium at 78%, iron at 35%, vitamin C at 26%, vitamin A and B1 at 22%, energy at 13%, and protein vitamin B2 and B3 at 9%. Malnutrition revealed that 52% were underweight and 35% were stunting. Glossitis, dental caries, and gingivitis were found in 65%, 56%, and 26%, respectively. Laboratory investigations revealed anemia in 13%, iron deficiency in 9%, and vitamin C deficiency in 22%. Malnutrition was not statistically significantly related to energy intake, feeding problems, and route. Energy intake above 100% DRI was related to normal length (p=0.019).

Conclusion: Children with CP commonly had malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies due to inadequate intakes. Proper nutritional support with balanced diet will prevent malnutrition and promote health of these children.

Keywords: Cerebral palsy; Malnutrition, nutrient intakes; Nutrient deficiencies; Thai children

DOI: 10.35755/jmedassocthai.2022.06.13323

Received 18 October 2021 | Revised 19 April 2022 | Accepted 25 April 2022