Spinal cord injury
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is considered to be damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss-of-function; it usually occurs due to trauma, for example, a car accident, or a medical condition, such as Spina bifida.
- 46% of spinal cord injuries a result of Land Transport accidents
What's the risk?
While an SCI can happen to anyone, certain individuals are more prone
- Men - 80% of Spinal cord injuries occur in men
- People between the ages of 18 to 35 years are more likely to sustain spinal injuries (usually from car or motorcycle accidents)
- Athletes, in particular gymnasts, divers and surfers are at increased risk.
The average age of a spinal cord injury is 42 years in men and 53 in women.
SCI imposes a large burden on the individual, their families and Carers in the economy as a result of the high-level and long-term disability and increased mortality risk.
Approximately 60% with SCI are wheelchair dependent and may require home modifications and specialised equipment