The study is a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial that will be conducted at the Medical University of Varna. This setting offers access to a wealth of clinical expertise in managing CP and ASD and a rich tradition of conducting robust nutritional interventions.
A formal diagnosis made by a qualified neurologist. The diagnosis can span across the different types of CP and ASD.
Expressed willingness to participate in the study.
Availability for the entire duration of the study.
Children with acute medical conditions or comorbidities that may significantly disrupt study assessments.
Any severe infections within the last 10 days prior to the study.
Presence of genetic syndromes that could influence nutritional status, e.g., Silver Russel syndrome or Down syndrome.
Parents with cognitive impairments, which might pose challenges in their participation during assessments/intervention.
Factorial
Nutrilect
BehavioralThis intervention involves a comprehensive approach that includes a thorough nutritional assessment and individualized nutrition plan for children with cerebral palsy (CP) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), addressing their unique dietary needs and challenges. It encompasses nutritional counseling, dietary modifications when necessary, and seamless integration with other therapies, including speech therapy and psychological consultation. The overarching goal is to optimize growth, muscle function, and overall well-being in these children by providing tailored nutritional support alongside a holistic care approach.
bedridden days monthsmean duration of bedridden days over six months
mean duration of bedridden days
Weight-for-Age Z-Score
The Weight-for-Age Z-Score serves as a secondary outcome measure in the study, primarily focusing on assessing changes in the study participants' weight status. Data collection involves anthropometric assessments and the utilization of reference growth charts, specifically the World Health Organization (WHO) reference charts, to record participants' weight relative to their age. This measurement employs the Z-score as the unit of measure, quantifying deviations in weight from the baseline. A positive Z-score indicates above-average weight for a given age group, while a negative Z-score indicates below-average weight, providing a valuable indicator of participants' nutritional status and growth trends over time.
Height-for-Age Z-Score
The Height-for-Age Z-Score is a secondary outcome measure focused on evaluating changes in the study participants' height status. It involves anthropometric assessments and the use of WHO reference growth charts to record participants' height in relation to their age. The Z-score is the unit of measure, allowing for the quantification of height changes relative to the baseline. A positive Z-score indicates above-average height for the age group, while a negative Z-score indicates below-average height, offering a valuable indicator of participants' growth patterns and nutritional well-being over time.
BMI-for-Age Z-Score
The secondary outcome measure, BMI-for-age Z-Score, assesses changes in the study participants' Body Mass Index (BMI) in relation to their age. This measurement relies on deriving BMI from weight and height measurements, with comparisons made using reference growth charts provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). The Z-score is employed as the unit of measure, enabling the quantification of BMI changes relative to the baseline. A positive Z-score signifies an above-average BMI for the age group, whereas a negative Z-score indicates a below-average BMI, serving as an essential metric for tracking variations in participants' nutritional status and body composition throughout the study.
Number of social interactions per week with non-family members
The 'Number of Social Interactions per Week with Non-Family Members' is a quantitative measure that assesses the child's weekly engagement in social interactions with individuals outside their immediate family circle. It involves tracking and recording the frequency of diverse social exchanges, such as conversations, playdates, school-related interactions, and community engagements over a one-week period. This measure is instrumental in evaluating the child's social participation, integration into broader social networks, and overall quality of life. A higher number of interactions typically indicates greater social engagement and integration, while a lower number may signal reduced social participation, highlighting areas that require attention for the child's holistic development.
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
Silviya Pavlova Nikolova, PhD
Lead sponsor
Medical University of Varna
Sponsor institution
European Union
Collaborator
This trial is not recruiting at the moment. You can still explore other options:
