FL H9059

Recognizes November 12-18, 2012, as "Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week" in Florida.

Approximately 262,000 individuals in the United States have sustained a spinal cord injury, with approximately 12,000 new cases occurring annually.

The most common age for spinal cord injuries is 19 years old, with 56 percent of all injuries occurring between ages 16 and 30; more than 80 percent occur in men.

The four leading causes of spinal cord injury are auto accidents, falls, acts of violence, and recreational sporting activities.

Average annual care costs range from $240,000 to $830,000 the first year after injury, with estimated lifetime costs between $529,000 and $3.3 million depending on injury severity.