Determination of the Burden of Spinal Cord Injury and Limb Amputation as a Result of the Bam Earthquake in 2004

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aimed at investigating the burden of injuries, including spinal cord injuries and limb amputation,<br /> caused by the Bam earthquake. Materials and Methods: The data related to morbidity of spinal cord injuries were collected from records<br /> provided by State Welfare Organization of Iran. Then, morbidity and mortality data for amputation and also mortality of spinal cord injuries<br /> were obtained from a previous study using the network scale‑up method. Then, we followed the World Health Organization guidelines to<br /> assess the burden of this disease, and then years of life lost (YLL) and years of life lost due to disability (YLD) were calculated. Results: The<br /> disability‑adjusted life years (DALYs) caused by the spinal cord injury were 15,435 years. YLL due to premature mortality was 13,134 and YLD<br /> was 2301 years and the number of DALY caused by limb amputation was equal to 2184, all of which were due to YLD. Conclusions: According<br /> to the results of the present study, spinal cord injuries and amputations resulting from the earthquake impose many burdens on society. This<br /> provides outcomes and evidence for policymaking and planning in the field of health care for policymakers.