Spinal cord injury epidemiological proﬁle in the Sarah Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals—a Brazilian population sample

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-018-0049-8 · Published: January 30, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study examines the characteristics of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) who were treated at the Sarah Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals in Brazil. The study found that SCI in this population is most commonly caused by gunshot wounds, followed by motorcycle and car accidents, and predominantly affects young men. The results highlight a significant issue of violence and traffic accidents contributing to SCI in young adults in Brazil.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

2076 individuals with spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Level 3; Retrospective cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
Gunshot wounds were identified as the primary cause of SCI in the studied population, particularly affecting male individuals with thoracic injuries, often resulting in complete SCI.
2
The study revealed a high incidence of SCI among young adults due to violence and traffic accidents in Brazil.
3
Men with SCI in the study had a lower level of education compared to women, suggesting a potential link between education and SCI prevention.

Research Summary

This retrospective study analyzed the epidemiological profile of individuals with SCI treated at the Sarah Network in Brazil in 2014. The study found that SCI predominantly affects young men, with gunshot wounds being the leading cause, followed by motorcycle and car accidents. The authors conclude that the data highlights the impact of violence and traffic-related incidents on SCI in Brazil, emphasizing the need for prevention strategies.

Practical Implications

Prevention Strategies

The high incidence of SCI due to gunshot wounds and traffic accidents emphasizes the need for targeted prevention programs.

Resource Allocation

Understanding the epidemiological profile helps in allocating resources for rehabilitation and care of SCI patients.

Education and Awareness

The study highlights the importance of education in preventing traumatic SCI, particularly among men.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to data from a single hospital network, which may not be representative of the entire Brazilian population.
2
The retrospective design relies on existing medical records, which may have incomplete or inconsistent data.
3
The study lacks national data for comparison, making it difficult to assess the true scope of SCI in Brazil.

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