- Currently, it is estimated that there are 1.3 billion people in the world with some type of disability.
- In addition to discrimination, they are also at greater risk of developing problems such as asthma, depression, diabetes, obesity, oral diseases, and stroke.
- International Day of Persons with Disabilities is commemorated every December 3.
A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that the risk of premature death and disease is greater in most people with disabilities than other members of society. But in addition, the work goes into depth to identify why this phenomenon is generated.
The world report entitled Global report on health equity for people with disabilities shows that the risk of dying much earlier—up to 20 years sooner—is much higher among people with disabilities than among people without disabilities as a result of systemic and persistent health inequities.
People with disabilities are at increased risk of developing chronic conditions, which, in the case of asthma, depression, diabetes, obesity, oral disease and stroke, it can double. Many of the differences in health effects are not attributable to underlying health status or disability, but to avoidable and unfair factors.
The report shows that the number of people with significant disabilities worldwide has increased to 1.3 billion (1 in 6 people). This figure reinforces the importance of achieving the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society and incorporating the principles of inclusion, accessibility and non-discrimination into the health sector.
Unfair factors are a root cause of health disparities
The report stresses the need for urgent action to address the huge health inequities due to unfair factors in health systems. These factors, which explain many of the differences in health effects between people with and without disabilities, could take different forms:
- Negative attitudes of health professionals.
- Health information in formats that are not understandable.
- Difficulties in accessing a health center due to the physical environment.
- Lack of transportation.
- economic barriers.
“Health systems should alleviate the challenges faced by people with disabilities, rather than add to them. This report sheds light on the inequities that people with disabilities face when trying to access the care they need. WHO is committed to supporting countries with the guidance and tools they need to ensure access to quality health services for all people with disabilities,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom.
In a world where it is estimated that 80% of people with disabilities live in low- and middle-income countries with limited health services, addressing health inequalities could be challenging. Still, even with limited resources, a lot can be accomplished.
Opportunities for a disability inclusive health sector
While acknowledging that all people have an equal right to the highest attainable standard of health, the report presents important economic analysis of taking an inclusive approach to disability. And the bottom line is that investing in a disability inclusive health sector pays off.
Specific and comprehensive measures covering the entire health sector
The report outlines 40 actions at all levels of the health sector that governments could take, based on the latest evidence drawn from academic studies, as well as consultations with countries and civil society, including organizations representing the people. with disabilities. These measures vary depending on the level of resources, and range from taking care of the physical infrastructure to training health and care workers.
Ensuring health equity for people with disabilities will also have broader benefits and can advance global health priorities in three ways:
- Equity in health for all is fundamental to achieving universal health coverage.
- Inclusive public health interventions that are implemented equitably across sectors can contribute to healthier populations.
- The promotion of equity in health for persons with disabilities is a central component of all efforts aimed at protecting the entire population in health emergencies.
Also read:
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