Factors Affecting Quality of Life Among Spinal Cord Injury Patients in Korea

Int Neurourol J, 2016 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5213/inj.1630540.270 · Published: December 31, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Urology Participation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the challenges faced by spinal cord injury (SCI) patients in South Korea, focusing on issues beyond physical disabilities. It highlights that difficulties with voiding, defecation, and sexual function are major concerns often overlooked by the general public and even physicians. The research involved administering a questionnaire to SCI patients to understand their daily challenges and discomforts. The questionnaire covered basic information, SCI-related discomforts, daily management of voiding, and sex life and family planning. The findings revealed that urinary problems, bowel problems and sexual activity were frequently reported by SCI patients, significantly impacting their quality of life. The study suggests that physicians should address these concerns in addition to physical disabilities when managing SCI patients.

Study Duration

2013

Participants

299 SCI patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Urinary problems, particularly incontinence and urinary tract infections, were the most commonly reported issues among SCI patients.
2
A significant percentage of SCI patients were using clean intermittent catheterization (67%) and taking voiding-related medications (63%) to manage urinary issues.
3
The study found that a considerable number of SCI patients (83%) had sexual desires, and among those without offspring, 27% had future plans for children.

Research Summary

This study surveyed SCI patients in South Korea to identify factors affecting their quality of life, revealing that urinary and bowel problems, along with sexual dysfunction, are significant concerns in addition to physical disability. The research highlights the importance of addressing these secondary discomforts in SCI patient management to improve their overall well-being, emphasizing the need for physicians to be more attentive to voiding and sexual health issues. The study also points out the need for better patient education and support regarding urogenital complications, as well as the importance of open communication about sexual health in a conservative cultural context.

Practical Implications

Improved Patient Care

Physicians should proactively address voiding and sexual health issues in SCI patients to enhance their quality of life.

Enhanced Education

SCI patients need comprehensive education on managing urogenital complications and available supportive methods for sexual activity.

Policy Development

The establishment of a national SCI registry can improve data collection and resource allocation for SCI patients in South Korea.

Study Limitations

1
The study is based on a survey conducted in 2013, which may not reflect current conditions.
2
The reliance on self-reported data may introduce biases in the findings.
3
The study's focus on South Korea may limit the generalizability of the results to other populations.

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