Global Milestones Achieved for Cauda Equina Syndrome
This year marks two historic milestones in the global recognition of Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES).
On October 16th, Cauda Equina Champions Charity (CECC) will join with World Spine Day to launch the first-ever International Cauda Equina Awareness Day, creating an annual opportunity to make CES an international conversation. And alongside this, the independent CES Initiative has officially launched: a global collaboration to improve outcomes, promote earlier diagnosis and treatment, and work towards recognition of the holistic rehabilitation needs of CES patients.
International CES Awareness Day
Although rare, with incidence rates recognised worldwide as 1–7 cases per 100,000 people, CES is a life-changing spinal emergency. The consequences of late diagnosis can be devastating leaving people with paralysis, incontinence, chronic pain, and loss of independence. Despite this, CES remains too often overlooked and underrepresented in global health priorities.
By aligning with World Spine Day, CECC is calling for CES to be recognised as a world health condition. Each year, on October 16th, International Cauda Equina Awareness Day will raise awareness, unite communities, and demand improved healthcare pathways for patients worldwide.
Claire Thornber, founder of CECC, said:
“This is a historic moment. For the first time, Cauda Equina Syndrome is being recognised on an international platform. Our collaboration with World Spine Day means CES will no longer be a hidden crisis. It will be part of a global conversation on spinal health. Awareness saves lives, and awareness protects futures.”
Launch of the CES Initiative
At the same time, the new CES Initiative has been launched to build on this momentum. Founded by Claire Thornber (patient advocate and campaigner), together with Professor Bini (International Institute of Neuroscience, Hannover, European Co-Chair) and Dr Nish Srikandarajah (Consultant Neurosurgeon, The Walton Centre, Liverpool, CESCOS study lead, UK Co-Chair), the CES Initiative brings together lived experience, pioneering research, and world-class surgical expertise.
The CES Initiative will work to:
· Raise awareness of CES internationally
· Promote earlier diagnosis and treatment through education and collaboration
· Strengthen treatment pathways and reduce delays in care
· Work towards recognition of the holistic rehabilitation needs of CES patients
· Support global collaboration in research and advocacy
Working alongside Cauda Equina Champions Charity, the CES Initiative represents a new era in CES recognition, combining advocacy, clinical leadership, and patient voice to place CES firmly on the global health agenda.
A Shared Mission
Together, these two milestones, International CES Awareness Day and the CES Initiative, signal a global turning point. They represent a united call for recognition, action, and change, ensuring that CES is no longer a hidden condition but a recognised world health priority.
For more information on the International CES Awareness Day visit www.caudaequinachampionscharity.org or for more details on how to play a part in the CES Initiative visit www.ihavecaudaequina.com