Acute spinal cord injury in Africa: exploring the long- term outcomes and future directions of acute spinal cord injury – short communication

Annals of Medicine & Surgery, 2023 · DOI: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000001405 · Published: October 17, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Healthcare Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) is a significant health issue in Africa, often resulting from road traffic accidents. Limited resources and poverty hinder access to proper diagnosis, management, and treatment. There's a critical need for better infrastructure and a multidisciplinary rehabilitation approach. International collaboration is essential for sharing knowledge and resources to improve ASCI care in Africa. This study aims to address the research gap on ASCI in Africa and guide future investigations into its various aspects and interventional needs.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Traumatic ASCI, primarily from road accidents, is a leading cause of morbidity in Africa, with 130 cases per million.
2
Limited resources, lack of funds and equipment, and widespread poverty restrict access to suitable diagnostic, management, and treatment options.
3
There is a need for well-developed infrastructure embracing a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation in Africa.

Research Summary

Acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) poses a significant health challenge in Africa, leading to sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunctions, causing morbidity, psychological disturbances, and a high socioeconomic burden. Road traffic accidents are the leading cause of traumatic ASCI in Africa, compounded by limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and widespread poverty, which restrict access to appropriate diagnostic, management, and treatment options. Addressing ASCI in Africa requires a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation, international collaborations for knowledge and resource sharing, and comprehensive research to inform preventive strategies and improve the well-being of affected individuals.

Practical Implications

Infrastructure Development

Invest in improving road infrastructure and vehicle safety to reduce the incidence of traumatic spinal cord injuries from road traffic accidents.

Resource Allocation

Allocate more funds and resources to healthcare facilities to improve diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, and rehabilitation services for ASCI patients.

International Collaboration

Foster international collaborations to facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and capacity building for ASCI research and management in Africa.

Study Limitations

1
Deficit in prehospital care for traumatic SCI research conducted in LMICs
2
SCI epidemiology data is deficient and mostly known in specific provinces
3
Africa, until now, still lacks actual epidemiological studies showing the prevalence rates

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