Type 2 Diabetes Increases the Risk of Serious and Life-Threatening Conditions Among Adults With Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

Mayo Clin Proc Inn Qual Out, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2023.08.002 · Published: October 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study examines the relationship between traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the risk of developing serious health conditions. The research indicates that adults with both TSCI and T2D face a higher incidence of severe health issues compared to those with TSCI alone. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and improved management of diabetes in individuals with TSCI to mitigate the risk of these complications.

Study Duration

September 1, 2022 to February 2, 2023

Participants

9081 adults with traumatic spinal cord injury

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Adults with TSCI and T2D had a higher incidence of all assessed morbidities compared to those with TSCI alone.
2
Individuals with TSCI and T2D showed a greater hazard for conditions like sepsis, myocardial infarction, osteomyelitis, and stroke.
3
Comorbid conditions such as pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and depression were more prevalent in individuals with both TSCI and T2D.

Research Summary

The study compared the incidence of serious and life-threatening morbidities among adults with traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D). Adults living with TSCI and T2D have a signiﬁcantly higher incidence of and risk of developing serious and life-threatening morbidities as compared with nondiabetic adults with TSCI. The study highlights the need for increased clinical awareness, improved screening strategies, accessible diabetes monitoring equipment, and efﬁcient referral resources to reduce morbidity and mortality in this population.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Clinical Awareness

Increase awareness among healthcare providers regarding the elevated risks associated with T2D in TSCI patients.

Improved Screening Strategies

Implement more effective screening protocols for diabetes and related complications in individuals with TSCI.

Accessible Diabetes Management

Provide accessible diabetes monitoring equipment and develop efficient referral resources for coordinated care.

Study Limitations

1
Unable to determine the severity of disability or spinal level of TSCI.
2
The sample may be more reflective of a healthier, higher-functioning segment of the TSCI population due to private insurance requirements.
3
Lack of death information in the study prevented consideration of death as a competing risk.

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