Investigating adherence to screening guidelines for cardiometabolic disease in persons with spinal cord injury at the Parkwood Institute Outpatient Clinic

Abstract

Persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at an increased risk of developing cardiometabolic disease (CMD) and related complications. To address this, the Paralyzed Veterans of America released a set of clinical practice guidelines with screening recommendations for CMD risk factors such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. Clinical data indicated that 25 patients out of a total of 48 (52%) are at an increased risk of developing cardiometabolic disease, as defined as having three or more risk factors present. In addition, a review of 30 intake forms from the Parkwood Institute Outpatient Clinic showed that hypertension and weight screenings were only completed 6 and 5 times respectively. Low rates of screening demonstrate the need for understanding and addressing barriers in the Outpatient Clinic. Reflections on current screening practices and the progression of risk factors in the SCI population will help to inform better treatment strategies for improving adherence and reducing cardiometabolic risk