House-to-house survey of disabilities in rural communities in the north of the West Bank
Date
2009-06-03
Authors
Hamdan, M.
Al-Akhras, N.
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Abstract
o identify the prevalence of disability and characteristics, conditions and needs of those with disabilities in rural communities in the north of the West Bank, 10147 families were screened in a cross-sectional survey. Prevalence was 1.7% (806 persons with disabilities). Physical (34.0%), mental (15.9%) and speech (11.4%) disabilities were the commonest. The major cause as perceived by the families was heredity (30.5%): parental consanguinity was 50.8%. Economic conditions were the major problem for 41.1%, and the main barrier to receiving care: only 49.3% were receiving some kind of care. Integration in educational, work and social activities was low. Pressing needs included medical care, support equipment, and educational, physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.