Demographic profile of spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an injury to the spinal cord from traumatic or non traumatic causes. Data collection on the basis of income allows SCI statistics to meaningfully describe countries within a socioeconomic context. High-income countries have around one-fifth or more of their populations over 60 years of age, whereas lower income countries often have younger populations. Prevalence of NTSCI is expected to increase along with an aging population in many regions. Globally, age distribution of TSCI is bimodal, with the first peak between 18-32 years with predominantly males and the second peak at 65 years and above with an increased number of females. NTSCI in high-income countries are due to degenerative conditions and tumours, whereas in lower income countries, the predominant cause is infections. Low-income countries have the highest 1-year mortality rates. The main cause of death in the first year after SCI is respiratory complications. TSCI has much higher costs as compared to NTSCI. The major factor influencing this is the higher use of intubation and intensive care units.