Spinal cord injury in Manitoba: a provincial epidemiological study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2011 · DOI: 10.1179/107902610X12923394765733 · Published: January 1, 2011

Simple Explanation

This study looked at spinal cord injuries (SCI) in Manitoba, Canada, over several years. It examined both traumatic (caused by injury) and non-traumatic (caused by illness or condition) SCI. The researchers wanted to see if the number of SCI cases was changing and to identify groups of people who were more likely to experience SCI. The study found that SCI is becoming more common in Manitoba, especially non-traumatic SCI, and that older adults and First Nations people are at higher risk.

Study Duration

Three cohorts (1981–1985, 1998–2002, and 2003–2007)

Participants

553 individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The incidence of overall SCI in Manitoba has significantly increased from 22.0 to 46.5 per million.
2
There was a significant increase in the mean age at injury from 30.23 to 45.768 years of age.
3
First Nations population has a high risk of SCI in Manitoba.

Research Summary

This study analyzed SCI trends in Manitoba over three cohorts, revealing a significant increase in overall SCI incidence, particularly NTSCI. The study identified an increasing mean age at injury and a disproportionately high incidence of SCI among the First Nations population. The findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies and resource allocation, especially for older adults and First Nations communities.

Practical Implications

Preventive Strategies for First Nations

Implement preventive strategies to reduce the high risk of SCI in Manitoba First Nations, and increase resources to deliver services to this population.

Resource Allocation for Aging Population

Structure acute care and rehabilitation programs to address the trend of older age at injury, enhancing the need for treating older and more medically complicated individuals with SCI.

Early Recognition and Rehabilitation for NTSCI

Initiate discussion in Manitoba about increasing current prevention strategies and possibly introducing new prevention strategies to reduce TSCI as well as early recognition and optimal rehabilitation for NTSCI.

Study Limitations

1
Some SCI patients with mild NTSCI may not have been identified due to evaluation and treatment at smaller community hospitals.
2
Patients with advanced concomitant disease may not have been referred for assessment.
3
Neurological deficits were not classified by standardized scales, potentially decreasing comparability with future studies.

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