ISCoS-WHO collaboration. International Perspectives of Spinal Cord Injury (IPSCI) report

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe the projects, the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS) has in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) for the benefit of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) worldwide.

SETTING: International

METHODS: Collaboration between ISCoS and WHO can be divided into (A) building capacity for better SCI education and prevention programs; (B) improving classification systems for use of data in SCI research, the International Classification of External Cause of Injury (ICECI), the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF); and (C) improving the evidence base for SCI through the report, International Perspectives on Spinal Cord Injury (IPSCI). The objectives of the IPSCI report are first to summarize information on SCI, in particular the science and epidemiology, the services, interventions and policies that are relevant and 'the lived experience' of persons with SCI across the full spectrum of life and throughout the world; second, to document all aspects of the science and experience of SCI to identify gaps between what exists and what is required; and third to make recommendations based on this evidence, with a clear perception of feasible goals and targets, that are consistent with the aspirations and goals of inclusion and full participation as expressed in the UN Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. FUTURE COOPERATION: ISCoS and WHO will continue to join forces in areas where they can make the greatest difference, especially in prevention and educational issues worldwide.