Year: 2026 | Month: February | Volume: 16 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 332-340
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20260237
Mind the Neck: A Cross-Sectional Study on Awareness of Cervical Spinal Injuries Among Medical and Non-Medical Graduates
Kotha Hari Priyanka1, Papasani Anil Kumar Reddy2, Middina Mahesh3
1Department of Radiology, Anna Gowri Medical College and Hospital, Puttur, India.
2,3Department of Neurosurgery, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences, Tirupati, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Papasani Anil Kumar Reddy
ABSTRACT
Background: Cervical spinal injuries (CSI) are high-risk trauma events where early recognition and proper first-aid measures are crucial to preventing secondary neurological damage. Public awareness remains limited, especially among non-medical individuals who often serve as first responders.
Objectives: To assess and compare CSI awareness between medical and non-medical graduates using a structured questionnaire, and to identify key areas requiring targeted educational interventions.
Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 200 participants (100 medical, 100 non-medical graduates) using a validated 15-item multiple-choice questionnaire. Awareness levels were categorized as High (≥12), Moderate (8–11), and Low (≤7). Group differences were analyzed using Welch’s t-test and chi-square tests.
Results: Medical graduates demonstrated significantly higher awareness (mean score 13.12 ± 1.27) compared to non-medical graduates (7.46 ± 1.73; p < 0.0001). High awareness was observed in 91% of medical graduates but only 2% of non-medical graduates. In contrast, 51% of non-medical graduates fell into the Low awareness category. The distribution difference was highly significant (χ² = 161.96, p < 0.0001). Domain-wise analysis showed pronounced gaps in airway management, immobilization principles, and early signs of cervical cord injury among non-medical participants.
Conclusion: Medical graduates possess strong CSI awareness, whereas non-medical graduates exhibit significant deficits, particularly in critical first-aid domains. Public-targeted CSI education initiatives are urgently needed to improve early response and reduce preventable neurological deterioration.
Key words: Cervical spinal injury; Awareness; First aid; Medical education; Trauma management