Groundbreaking research reveals new genetic cause of cerebral palsy

A new study has challenged common assumptions about cerebral palsy by revealing that genetics can influence the onset of the condition much more than was previously known.

The Australian Collaborative Cerebral Palsy Research Group, based at the University of Adelaide's Robinson Research Institute, has created DNA maps from families affected with cerebral palsy, showing that genetic mutations are the likely cause in at least 14 per cent of cases.

It has long been believed that the condition is almost always caused by a lack of oxygen during pregnancy or at birth, with as few as one percent of cases having a genetic cause.

As such, the team believe this is the biggest discovery about cerebral palsy in 20 years. It could pave the way for new approaches to treatment, while ensuring no doctors are incorrectly blamed for causing the condition.

University of Adelaide PhD student and lead author Gai McMichael said: "These results will make many rethink assumptions about the causes of cerebral palsy, which can be devastating for all concerned."

It is estimated that one in 400 people in the UK is affected by cerebral palsy. The condition causes muscle stiffness and weakness, uncontrolled body movements, and problems with balance and coordination.