title: Theoretical Risk and Prevention Model for Secondary Health Conditions and Mortality After SCI: 15 Years of Research.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  To successfully prevent secondary health conditions (SHCs) and promote longevity after spinal cord injury (SCI), we must first understand the risk factors precipitating their occurrence and develop strategies to address these risk factors. Conceptual models may aid in identifying the nature of SHCs and guide research, clinical practice, and the development of prevention strategies.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  Our purpose is to review and refine an existing theoretical risk and prevention model (TRPM) as a means of classifying risk and protective factors for SHCs and mortality after SCI and for identifying points of intervention.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe conceptual work within the field of SCI research and SHCs, including a description of the TRPM, a review of research using the TRPM, and conceptual enhancements to the TRPM based on previous research.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The enhanced TRPM directs research to the timing and chronicity of the SHCs and their relationship with overall health and physiologic decline. Future research should identify differences in the nature of SHCs, the extent to which they relate to risk and protective factors, and the degree to which they may be prevented with appropriate research-based strategies.
authors: Department of Health Sciences and Research, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina , Charleston, South Carolina.
authors: James S
authors: JS
authors: Krause
authors: Lee L
authors: LL
authors: Saunders
authors: Nicole D
authors: ND
authors: DiPiro
authors: Karla S
authors: KS
authors: Reed
keywords: health; longevity; mortality; risk; spinal cord injury; theoretical models