World Cerebral Palsy Day

• 10 Oct 2024

Source: PIB 

The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disability organised a National Meet to mark World Cerebral Palsy Day (WCPD), focusing on innovation and inclusion for individuals with Cerebral palsy (CP). 

• WCPD (6th October every year) is a global movement that started in 2012, uniting individuals with cerebral palsy from over 100 countries to advocate for equal rights, access, and opportunities in society. 
  • The theme for 2024 WCPD is “Uniquely CP”, which emphasises that a person’s disability does not define their entire identity. 
• CP is a group of disorders that affect movement, balance, and posture due to abnormal brain development or damage. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, with symptoms varying significantly among individuals. 
  • Causes: Majority (85-90%) of CP is congenital, occurring before (during brain development) or during birth. Acquired CP is less common and often linked to infections or head injuries after birth. 
  • Treatment: It is a permanent, non-progressive condition with no cure, but treatments can enhance symptoms, functioning, and quality of life.  
• The National Trust, a statutory body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, was established under the "National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, and Multiple Disabilities" Act (1999). 
  • Its aim is to create an inclusive society that empowers Persons with Disabilities to live independently with dignity and equal rights. 

Read more: Empowering Persons with Disabilities