Bangladesh observes World Cerebral Palsy Day

Institute of Paediatric Neurodisorder and Autism (IPNA) of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) organized “Free Cerebral Palsy Camp” and “Scientific Seminar” on 23 October 2019 at 8:00 am and 12:00 am respectively at F-Block, BSMMU centering around “World Cerebral Palsy Day”.

The event was inaugurated by Honorable Vice-Chancellor of BSMMU, Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua. In addition, it was attended by Pro-vice chancellors which include Prof. Dr. Shahana Akther Rahman and Prof. Dr. Md Rafiqul Alam, Treasurer Prof. Dr. Md Atiqur Rahman, Director of IPNA Prof. Dr. Shaheen Akhter, Dr. Gopen Kumar Kundu, Dr. Kaniz Fatema and many others.  

World Cerebral Palsy (CP) Day is Sunday 6 October 2019. It is a movement of people with Cerebral Palsy and their families, and the organizations that support them, in more than 75 countries. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of CP and the issues that affect people with CP at a local, national and international level to create more inclusive societies.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua stated, “Superstitious beliefs centering Cerebral Palsy, Autism and Down Syndrome still exist in villages and pastoral societies. Through promoting and celebrating these types of events, it is possible to get rid of the beliefs.”

 “Our Honourable Prime Minister has contributed immensely with financial support from the very beginning to treat poor patients free of cost. We are utterly grateful to have her as our PM who ponders so much about the wellbeing of the poor patients and of course about the institution”, the Vice-Chancellor added.

The day-long event was divided into two parts: “Free Cerebral Camp” and “Scientific Seminar” starting from 8:00 am and 12:00 pm respectively.

‘Free Cerebral Camp’ was organised with the motive to serve children, who are affected by CP, and their parents, with treatment and counselling for free of cost. Four Booths were set to serve the visitors which include Medical Assessment Booth, Psychological Assessment Booth, Development Therapy Booth and Counselling Booth. 

On the other hand, the “Scientific Seminar” held the discussion styled “Holistic Approach to Cerebral Palsy” which was attended by the vice-chancellor, pro-vice-chancellors, doctors, teachers, staff and many others.

Dr. Sanjida Ahmed and Dr. A.B.M Muqeed enlightened the attendees meticulously about a holistic approach to cerebral palsy.

There are 17 million people across the world living with cerebral palsy (CP) whereas another 350 million people are closely connected to a child or adult with CP. It is the most common physical disability in childhood. CP is a permanent disability that affects movement. Its impact can range from a weakness in one hand, to almost a complete lack of voluntary movement.