Paralysis more prevalent than previously believed
Jacksonville – Among the numerous health issues in America today, a new study is drawing attention to a somewhat overlooked health problem: paralysis. This condition and other movement-limiting afflictions is estimated to affect a surprising 5.6 million people, according to the study. Previous numbers had been significantly less.
The study was funded by the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation in an attempt to show how widespread the condition is and therefore rally more funding for research to help find ways to cure and assist paralysis victims. The foundation, which was started by the Reeves, has worked hard to draw attention to this condition, a cause important to the Reeves as Christopher Reeve was paralyzed after falling from a horse in 1995. Though both Christopher and Dana have since died, the foundation’s meaningful work is continuing to move ahead, with this study just the latest evidence of their success.
The study’s estimation of the prevalence of paralysis and other movement-limiting conditions varies so much from earlier figures because of the way the data was collected. Previous studies have generally been smaller in scope and much less inclusive of the range of paralysis, focusing more exclusively on the most severe cases. The study, which was released Tuesday, used phone surveys, asking participants if anyone in the home had difficulty moving their limbs. The survey then asked the cause of the difficulty. Included in the final 5.6 million estimate are those whose affliction was due to stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy, while other conditions, such as arthritis, were excluded.
Through these findings, the foundation hopes that the study will help spur legislation not only to increase funding for paralysis research, but to also show the need for better services to assist those suffering from paralysis, which can lead to other medical complications that require treatment. This is especially pertinent since more paralysis victims are living longer lives and are more likely to need ongoing assistance.
With these new figures, the foundation is sure to continue its quest to raise awareness and funds to help those who suffer from this debilitating condition.
