New survey reveals 5.5 million paralyzed Americans

A 2008 survey released by the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation found that there are millions more people with paralysis than previously thought. Past estimates put the number at about four million.

According to the USA Today piece, paralysis was defined as "'a central nervous system disorder resulting in difficulty or inability to move' arms or legs. Mobility problems from muscular dystrophy, obesity, arthritis or diabetes, which aren't central nervous system disorders, weren't counted."

The Reeve Foundation hope that the revised numbers will help fuel research as well as health care reform efforts.

For more information, visit: http://www.christopherreeve.org/

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-04-21-paralysis-survey_N.htm