Data Quality in Children with Cerebral Palsy Study
Author Information
Author(s): Heather Dickinson, Kathryn Parkinson, Vicki McManus, Catherine Arnaud, Eva Beckung, Jérôme Fauconnier, Susan I Michelsen, Jackie Parkes, Giorgio Schirripa, Ute Thyen, Allan Colver
Primary Institution: Newcastle University
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess data quality and potential bias in a multi-centre survey of children with cerebral palsy.
Conclusion
The study found higher non-traceability rates compared to similar surveys, but refusal rates were comparable.
Supporting Evidence
- 431 out of 1,174 families did not respond, indicating a significant non-response rate.
- Children with low IQ, seizures, or inability to walk were less likely to self-report their quality of life.
- There was substantial heterogeneity in response rates and socio-demographic characteristics across regions.
Takeaway
The study looked at how well families of children with cerebral palsy participated in a survey, finding that some families were hard to reach.
Methodology
Children aged 8-12 were selected from population-based registers and families were visited by trained researchers who administered questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Families whose children could walk unaided were less likely to participate, potentially introducing bias.
Limitations
The study had a higher non-traceability rate than similar surveys, which may affect the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The final sample included 818 responders, with a mean age of 10.5 years; 59% were boys and 41% girls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.4 to 0.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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