Author: Troughton KV et al.
Source: Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology 2001, Vol 43: 187-190.
93 children with varying types of CP were studied (mean age was 10 years of age). The goal of the study was to determine if there is a relationship between nutrition status and feeding competence in the pediatric CP population. Weight, length, mid-arm circumference(MAC) and tricep-skinfold measurements were taken to determine nutrition status. A modified version of the Multidisciplinary Feeding Profile was used to evaluate feeding competence, or the ability to feed oneself well. This profile involved both the parents answering questions and clinical observation by the researchers of the child eating and drinking. Certain areas of feeding were assessed (spoon-feeding, straw, cup, swallowing, drooling, chewing and biting).
The results of the study showed a relationship between lower feeding competency and undernutrition (defined as weight <2nd% on the growth chart, tricep skinfold <3rd% or MAC <5th% on the comparison tables available.) 37 children, or 46% displayed at least one criterion to be defined as undernourished. Better feeding competence was seen in the study participants who were not classified as undernourished. Nutrition status was not affected by sex or whether the child could walk. The ability to feed oneself was associated with better nutrition status, and oralmotor function (which would affect the ability to feed), was decreased in children with quadriplegia compared to other types of CP.
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