Why is this study needed?
The best way to assess chest health in cerebral palsy is unclear. Common measures such as ‘how fast you can blow air into a tube’ are often not possible for children with cerebral palsy, who struggle to control their breathing muscles or to follow instructions. As a result, chest health is often poorly monitored in this population.
Similarly, the best approach to managing chest health in cerebral palsy remains unclear. Researchers have used various methods to measure chest health, making it difficult to compare or combine study results. As a result, clinicians must make treatment decisions without knowing which options are most effective.
To improve research and clinical care for children and young people with cerebral palsy, we need a standardised set of important measures for chest health. To ensure the greatest benefit, these measures should reflect the needs and views of children, young people, and their families, particularly those at higher risk of poor chest health. This includes families from ethnic minorities, low-income households, and children who are unable to walk or have multiple needs.