CPA researchers present at conference in Pisa, Italy on the use of AI in universal screening for CP

Organised by international scientific consortium, CP360, and funded by the Stella Maris Infant Lab for Early Intervention (SMILE), the summit attracted professionals from around the world including researchers, clinicians, people with lived experience and policy leaders. 

AI has great potential to become a key tool in enhancing the accuracy and speed of diagnosing cerebral palsy, with algorithms able to identify early signs of movement interpretation more precisely than human observation. The automation of the General Movements Assessment (GMA) through AI will make it accessible to a wider range of clinical settings, even if clinicians have limited expertise. 

Ethical considerations, such as data privacy and regulatory requirements, were discussed to ensure a responsible approach to AI implementation. Different perspectives from legal experts, clinicians, and families, gave the summit an interdisciplinary approach. 

Our researchers co- led discussions on AI-based cerebral palsy screening using video data and set the framework for establishing global standards for data collection and video processing. As global leaders our researchers co-led the conversation on data governance and AI model development, influencing international policy and research directions. 

Key outcomes from the summit include the establishment of global standards, with agreed protocols for video data quality, such as the optimal video angle, lighting, and minimum length requirements for accurate analysis. Working groups were formed to focus on legal, technical, and clinical integration pathways, ensuring robust implementation and data privacy compliance. A clear roadmap for integrating AI into clinical settings was outlined, with specific guidelines for data acquisition, processing, and evaluation. Additionally, there was an emphasis on the need for diverse data sets, incorporating varied demographics, including different ethnicities and risk profiles, to ensure that AI models are unbiased and able to be generalised. 

We are incredibly proud of our researchers for leading in cutting-edge collaborations around the globe and presenting groundbreaking work with the shared goal of integrating AI into universal screening for cerebral palsy. 

About CP360

CP360 is a global coalition that advocates for the community of 17 million people around the world living with cerebral palsy. CP360 is dedicated to global action and advocacy to achieve positive impact and meaningful change for people with CP and their families.

Founded by Cerebral Palsy Alliance, CP360 brings together people with lived experience of CP and more than a dozen international peak disability CP organisations, including CP Foundation (United States), Fondation Paralysie Cérébrale (France) and the International Cerebral Palsy Society.