‘I forget to do pressure relief’: Personal factors influencing the prevention of secondary health conditions in people with spinal cord injury, South Africa

This study explores the personal factors that influence how people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) prevent secondary health conditions (SHCs), such as pressure sores and urinary tract infections. The research involved interviewing 17 individuals with SCI to understand what makes it easier or harder for them to prevent these secondary health issues. The findings highlight the importance of socio-economic status, mental well-being, knowledge, behavior, and access to assistive devices in preventing SHCs among people with SCI.

• 1
  Socio-economic status influences access to healthy food, medication, healthcare services, and assistive devices, impacting the ability to prevent SHCs.
• 2
  Mental well-being, including forgetfulness, beliefs, feelings, and attitudes towards prevention, affects adherence to preventative care practices.
• 3
  Patient activation through self-management, problem-solving, resilience, self-awareness, and help-seeking behavior plays a crucial role in preventing and managing SHCs.