Do people with SCI die sooner?
Yes. Before World War II, most people with SCI died within weeks of their injury due to urinary dysfunction, respiratory infection, or bedsores. Now antibiotics, materials such as plastics and latex, and better procedures for dealing with the everyday issues of living with SCI enable many people to approach the lifespan of non-disabled individuals. Other than level of injury, the type of rehab facility used is the greatest indicator of long-term survival. This highlights the importance of going to a facility that specializes in SCI. People who use ventilators are at some risk of dying from pneumonia or respiratory infection, but technology is improving that. Pressure sores are another common cause of hospitalization, and if not treated, death.
