1 research outputs found
Multimorbidity risk assessment in adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy: a protocol for establishing a core outcome set for clinical research and practice
Background: Estimates of multimorbidity, defined as the presence of at least two chronic conditions, some of which
attributable to modifiable behaviours, are high in adults with cerebral palsy (CP). An assessment protocol evaluating
multimorbidity risk is needed in order to develop and evaluate effective interventions to optimize lifelong health in
individuals with CP. The aim of this protocol paper is to describe the development of a core outcome set (COS) for
assessing multimorbidity risk in adolescents and adults with CP, to be used in clinic and research.
Methods: The expert consortium will first define the target population and outcomes to be measured. Through a
process of literature review and an international Delphi survey with expert clinicians and researchers, we will then
determine which outcome measurement instruments (OMIs) can best measure those outcomes. The resulting OMIs
will be used in a feasibility study with adolescents and adults with CP from an international clinical research network.
Finally, a face-to-face stakeholder meeting with adolescents and adults with CP, their families/caregivers and
researchers and clinicians who are experts in CP, will be organized to reach final agreement on the COS.
Discussion: This COS will guide clinicians and researchers in assessing multimorbidity risk in adolescents and adults with
CP. The inclusion of experts and individuals with CP from international locations for establishing the COS lends strong
support to its generalizability. Evidence of its feasibility and approval from all stakeholders will enable implementation in
clinical practice, and guide future research using the COS in individuals with CP