Spina bifida health issues of children in Ukraine

Spina bifida is one of the most common congenital neural tube defects, which leads to dysfunction many organs and systems disability. Purpose - conduct a comprehensive analysis health status children with spina hydrocephalus in Ukraine based on questionnaires parents their children, study medical documentation online counseling improve multidisciplinary support this group. Materials methods. A program for was launched June 2022 at initiative patient organization «Association «Lights Spirit» international «Child Help». At first stage, filled out questionnaire participate project, where demographic data child’s were indicated. total 149 participated project. Girls predominated among (63.1%). The age patients ranged from 1 month 24 years. next stages, conducted participation doctors team head «Light NGO. Results. Impaired motor function observed 87.2% bifida. Only 32.9% could walk independently, 14.1% needed outside help or aids, 42.3% used wheelchair get around. Orthopaedic pathology 75.2% patients, 65.8% children. neurogenic bladder noted 79.9% time questionnaire, urinary tract infections (UTIs) 77.9%. Clean intermittent catheterization regularly performed only 51.7% patients. showed that early initiation catheterisation associated lower incidence UTIs. Constipation 81.9% faecal micturition and/or incontinence 58.4% Bowel cleansing 49.7% 26.8% regularly. Skin damage (wounds bedsores) 12.8% allergic manifestations 21.8% 15% immunized accordance national vaccination schedule, 70% not vaccinated all. Body weight disorders 43% often overweight/obesity (32.2%). Conclusions. made it possible outline number problems pathology, affect quality life require approach treatment rehabilitation. research carried principles Helsinki Declaration. protocol approved by Local Ethics Committee all participating institutions. informed consent obtained conducting studies. No conflict interests declared authors.