Validation of Feeding Handicap Index in Adolescents with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Background:Feeding and or swallowing problems tend to persist in adolescents with CP Objective:To assess feeding and swallowing problems in the physical, functional and emotional domainsin adolescents with CP using Feeding Handicap Index (FHI), a tool developed in the Indian context, and to compare the results obtained through FHI with other dysphagia assessment tools.Methods:Cross sectional study was conducted with a random sample of 15 participants in the age range of 13 to 17.11 years. FHI was administered on the participants to assess the physical, functional and emotional domains of feeding. The functioning of oral structures during feeding wasassessed through BASOFF. The different levels and severity of feeding impairments were classified through Eating and drinking ability classification system (EDACS)and Dysphagia outcome and severity Scale respectively (DOSS). Descriptive statistics was done and Spearman correlation was used to find the relationship between FHI and other dysphagia assessment tools.Results:Administration of FHI on adolescents with CP revealed that they exhibited feeding and swallowing problems in different domains. FHI hadhigh correlation with other western feeding assessment tools. Conclusions:Hence FHI is an effective subjective feeding assessment tool to assess various domains of feeding in adolescents.