Epidemiology of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury in the Himalayan Range and Sub-Himalayan Region: A Retrospective Hospital Data-Based Study

Ann Rehabil Med, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5535/arm.23107 · Published: January 1, 2024

Simple Explanation

This study examines the characteristics of traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) in the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan regions of Northern India. It analyzes hospital data to understand who is affected and how the injuries occur. The research reveals that TSCI is more common among young males, particularly in rural hilly areas. Falls are the primary cause of these injuries, surpassing road traffic accidents (RTAs). Understanding these patterns can help in creating strategies to prevent TSCI in this specific region, such as improving safety measures in homes and on roads.

Study Duration

August 2018 and November 2021

Participants

167 trauma patients with TSCI

Evidence Level

Retrospective, cross-sectional descriptive analysis

Key Findings

1
The most common cause of TSCI was Falls (59.3%), followed by road traffic accidents (RTAs) (35.9%).
2
Males were significantly affected in this study, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.4:1.
3
Most participants, 108 (64.7%), were married at the time of the injury.

Research Summary

This retrospective study analyzed hospital data from a tertiary care center in Uttarakhand, India, to determine the epidemiological characteristics of traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) in the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan regions. The study found that TSCI is more prevalent in young males, especially in rural hilly areas, and that falls are the leading cause of injury, surpassing road traffic accidents. The findings suggest a need for targeted prevention strategies, considering the unique regional and demographic factors contributing to TSCI in this area.

Practical Implications

Targeted Prevention Programs

Develop specific prevention initiatives focused on reducing falls, especially in rural hilly areas, such as improving home safety and workplace practices.

Healthcare Accessibility

Enhance access to tertiary-level healthcare facilities in the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan regions to ensure timely and appropriate management of TSCI cases.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Implement public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the risks of falls and RTAs, promoting safer behaviors and practices.

Study Limitations

1
The sampling method was only based on one hospital record from Northern India.
2
Excluding 6 individuals who passed away before reaching the hospital might lead to underestimating the severity in some instances.
3
The generalizability of the findings to the broader Indian TSCI population

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