Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects movement and posture, and is caused by damage to the developing brain. In Ghana, an estimated 22,000 people live with cerebral palsy according to Prof. Eben Badoe, Head of Neurology at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. This works out to about one in every 300 live births.
Cerebral palsy has many potential causes. Jaundice, a condition where the body produces too much bilirubin, is one cause. Babies who are born prematurely also have a higher risk of developing cerebral palsy due to the vulnerability of the developing brain. Other potential causes include infections during pregnancy, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic disorders.
DR. EBENEZER BADOE
Cerebral palsy can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the brain damage and which parts of the brain are affected. The main symptoms include muscle stiffness, involuntary movements, lack of coordination, difficulties with walking, posture problems, and seizures. Some people with cerebral palsy may also have intellectual disabilities, vision and hearing impairments, and problems with speech.
Caring for someone with cerebral palsy requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists including doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Timely interventions and therapies can help improve mobility, function, and quality of life. However, the cost of healthcare and therapies is often high, creating a barrier for many families in Ghana.
Amani-Aminah Iddrisu, founder of the Afrakoma Foundation, says the cost of care at cerebral palsy centers in Ghana is very high, even for public healthcare. She is calling on the government to subsidize healthcare costs for people living with cerebral palsy. The Deputy Minister of Health, Tina Mensah, acknowledged that children with cerebral palsy require continuous support. She pledged the ministry's commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen health systems and ensure that children diagnosed with cerebral palsy receive quality care.
In summary, cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires specialized care and support. While awareness is growing in Ghana, there is still a need for greater government support to reduce healthcare costs and ensure that people living with cerebral palsy have access to the treatment they need. With early diagnosis and intervention, as well as continued therapies and care, the lives of people with cerebral palsy and their families can be significantly improved.
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