Epidemiology and Socioeconomic Impact of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
摘要
Traumatic spinal injury (TSI) encompasses damage to the spinal column, including osseous and disco-ligamentous structures, with or without neural element involvement. Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI), a subset of TSI, involves acute spinal cord and/or nerve root injuries leading to varying degrees of sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction. Understanding the epidemiology and socioeconomic impact of TSCI is crucial for developing effective prevention and resource allocation strategies. Despite advancements, epidemiological data on TSI and TSCI remain heterogeneous due to differing methodologies, definitions, and data sources. Risk factors for TSCI include both modifiable (e.g., substance abuse, occupational hazards) and non-modifiable (e.g., age, gender) elements. Prevention strategies, such as safety legislation, educational campaigns, and tailored interventions, are essential for reducing TSCI incidence. The socioeconomic impact of TSCI is profound, involving high costs due to disability and loss of productivity. Effective management and rehabilitation, along with policies supporting vocational retraining and employment, are vital for improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals with TSCI. The psychosocial consequences for patients and their families necessitate comprehensive support systems to facilitate community reintegration and mental health. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of TSCI epidemiology and its multifaceted socioeconomic implications, underscoring the need for evidence-based strategies to mitigate its burden.