Cerebral Palsy Prevalence and Co-Occurring Conditions in US Children

Strategic Insights -

According to recent research published in the Maternal and Child Health Journal, the overall prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) in children aged 2-17 years in the United States is 3.1 per 1,000 children. The study analyzed data from the 2016-2021 National Survey of Children's Health and found that boys have a higher prevalence of CP than girls (3.6/1,000 vs. 2.5/1,000). The prevalence of CP also varies by birthweight, with children born with low and very low birthweight having a significantly higher prevalence (46.6 and 7.1/1,000, respectively). However, there is no clear change in CP prevalence over time.

Key Takeaways:

  • The overall prevalence of cerebral palsy in children aged 2-17 years in the United States is 3.1 per 1,000 children.
  • Boys have a higher prevalence of CP than girls (3.6/1,000 vs. 2.5/1,000).
  • The prevalence of CP varies by birthweight, with children born with low and very low birthweight having a significantly higher prevalence (46.6 and 7.1/1,000, respectively).
  • There is no clear change in CP prevalence over time.
  • Most children with CP have at least one co-occurring condition, with the largest differences for intellectual disability (PR = 43) and epilepsy or seizure disorder (PR = 69).
  • Children with CP have a significantly higher prevalence of co-occurring developmental, neurological, and mental health conditions compared to those without CP.
  • The prevalence of severe CP increased from 16.8% (2016-2018) to 30.3% (2019-2021).
  • Lin H. Tian et al. (2025). Prevalence and Co-occurring Developmental, Neurological, and Mental Health Conditions of Cerebral Palsy Among Children in the United States: 2016-2021. Maternal and Child Health Journal.
  • National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Maternal and Child Health Journal.