The International Perspectives on Spinal Cord Injury is a comprehensive report on spinal cord injuries from the International Health Organization. It provides a global overview of spinal cord injuries and offers practical methods to enhance various aspects of life for individuals with SCI, including healthcare, rehabilitation, relationships, employment, and more.

Every year, 250,000 and 500,000 people worldwide suffer spinal cord injuries primarily due to road traffic accidents, falls, and violence. Unfortunately, individuals with spinal cord injuries face a higher risk of premature death, lower rates of school enrollment, and limited economic participation compared to those without such injuries.

Moreover, spinal cord injuries impose significant costs on both individuals and society. However, it’s important to note that with appropriate medical and rehabilitation responses, supportive services, and accessible environments, we can minimise the impact of spinal cord injuries and promote the well-being and inclusion of individuals and their families.

The main objectives of the International Perspectives on Spinal Cord Injury are twofold:

• gathering and summarising information on spinal cord injuries, including epidemiology, services, interventions, and relevant policies.
• highlighting the personal experiences of those living with spinal cord injuries.

Based on these goals, the report provides valuable practical knowledge and recommendations, such as improving the healthcare sector’s response to spinal cord injuries, empowering individuals with SCI and their families, addressing negative attitudes towards SCI, promoting employment and self-employment opportunities, and more.

If you’re interested in this topic, I encourage you to read the full report, available in four additional languages to cater to diverse readers worldwide.