Journal article
Physical Health in Adults Born With Cleft Lip and/or Palate: A Whole of Life Survey in the United Kingdom
The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal, Vol.58(2), pp.153-162
02/2021
PMID: 32734770
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Abstract
Objectives: Previous research in the field of cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) has indicated a high prevalence of common health concerns, functional difficulties, and additional conditions known to affect long-term physical health, cognitive development, and psychological well-being. The aim of the present study was to examine the self-reported physical health of a national sample of adults born with CL/P.
Design: Drawing upon previous literature, an online, mixed-methods survey was designed by the Cleft Lip and Palate Association in collaboration with the Centre for Appearance Research at the University of the West of England. A total of 207 eligible responses were received between July and October 2018. Qualitative data were analyzed using inductive content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: A considerable proportion of participants reported one or more comorbid conditions, including common health concerns, difficulties related to language and/or learning, unresolved speech and/or hearing issues, problems with vision, breathing difficulties, and concerns related to eating and drinking. Many participants were unaware of their entitlement to specialist treatment, and some had experienced difficulties accessing specialist services through their general practitioner (GP).
Conclusions: Individuals with CL/P may be at risk of physical health issues persisting into adulthood. The monitoring of physical symptoms from an early age is recommended, as is a routine physical assessment for adults returning to the CL/P service later in life. Education for both GPs and adults is warranted. Future studies could investigate the wider prevalence of comorbid conditions in CL/P, in order to better understand the longer-term health burden.
Details
- Title
- Physical Health in Adults Born With Cleft Lip and/or Palate: A Whole of Life Survey in the United Kingdom
- Creators
- Kenny Ardouin - Cleft Lip and Palate Association (United Kingdon, London)Sinéad Davis - Morriston HospitalNicola Marie Stock - University of the West of England
- Publication Details
- The Cleft palate-craniofacial journal, Vol.58(2), pp.153-162
- Publisher
- Sage
- Number of pages
- 10
- Grant note
- The CLAPA Adult Services Programme was funded by the VTCT Foundation (registered charity: 1155360).
- Identifiers
- 991013389897302368
- Copyright
- © 2020, American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article