Arterial Structure and Function in Ambulatory Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy Are Not Different from Healthy Controls
Authors: Martin A, Cotie L, Timmons B, Gorter J, MacDonald M
Year: 2012
Source: International Journal of Pediatrics 2012:8 pages.
Abstract: Physical inactivity in youth with cerebral palsy (CP) places them at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The current study assessed indices of arterial health in adolescents with CP, classified as levels I-II of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) ( n = 11 , age 13.2 ± 2.1 ?yr), in comparison to age- and sex-matched controls ( n = 11 , age 12.4 ± 2.3 ?yr). Groups were similar in anthropometric measurements, resting blood pressures, and heart rates. There were no group differences in brachial flow-mediated dilation ( 11.1 ± 7.8 versus 6.1 ± 3.6 ), carotid intima-media thickness ( 0.42 ± 0.04 versus 0.41 ± 0.03 ?mm), and distensibility ( 0.008 ± 0.002 versus 0.008 ± 0.002 ?mmHg) or central ( 4.3 ± 0.6 versus 4.1 ± 0.9 ?m/s) and peripheral pulse wave velocity ( 7.1 ± 1.7 versus 7.6 ± 1.1 ?m/s); CP versus healthy controls, respectively. Vigorous intensity physical activity (PA) was lower in the CP group (CP: 38 ± 80 ?min versus controls: 196 ± 174 ?min); groups were similar in light and moderate intensity PA levels. Arterial health of ambulatory youth with CP is not different from a control group despite lower vigorous PA levels. Similar studies need to examine individuals with more pronounced mobility limitations (GMFCS level III?V). Abstract originally from the Hindawi Publishing Corporation. Reprinted with permission under a Creative Commons Attribution license.
Institution: martiaa2@mcmaster.ca. Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1
Language: English
Subject headings: Cerebral palsy, Children, Youth
Geographic areas: Canada, North America