Economic Burden and Quality of Life of Children with Cerebral Palsy in Urban Bengaluru: Insights from a Community Study

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the leading cause of motor impairment in children worldwide, presenting substantial economic burdens on families, particularly in low socio-economic settings. In India, CP affects approximately 3/1000 live births placing substantial financial and quality‑of‑life burdens on children and their caregivers. This study aimed to assess the economic burden and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among children with CP from low economic areas in Urban Bengaluru, India. It sought to analyse the direct, indirect and non-medical costs of managing CP and evaluate the health utility index scores of affected children and their caregivers. A cross-sectional study was conducted among caregivers of children with CP in schools within Bengaluru Urban district. Data on socio-demographic, economic details, costs and HRQoL were collected through interviews using the Cost of Illness Inventory and European Quality of Life questionnaires (EQ-5D-Y for children and EQ-5D-5 L for caregivers). The study highlighted a considerable economic burden, with direct medical ₹49,498.21/$ 597.00, direct non-medical ₹4,980.36/$60.07 and indirect costs ₹64,027.61/$ 772.23. Children with CP exhibited moderate health status (HUI score: 0.6039), while caregivers reported high perceived health (HUI score: 0.9546). A significant positive correlation was observed between direct medical and non-medical costs, with negative correlations between these costs and household income, indicating higher burdens on lower-income families. This study reveals a significant economic burden on families managing CP in low socio-economic settings in Urban Bengaluru, with high direct and indirect costs. Children with CP exhibit moderate HRQoL, while caregivers maintain a high perceived health status. The findings underscore the need for targeted financial support and policy interventions to alleviate these burdens.