Disability is an incapacity or inability to function normally, physically or mentally. As defined by US Federal Govt., “inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to last or haslasted for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”

Our cover story this week is on Disabilities. Disability encompasses not only physical and mental disability but also disabilities from autism to Down Syndrome to multiple sclerosis.

Disability is not just a health problem, it is a complex phenomenon, reflecting the interaction between  features of a person’s body and features of the society in which he or she lives.

The international classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) defines disability as an umbrella term for impairments activity, limitations and participation restrictions.

Overcoming the difficulties faced by people with disabilities requires interventions to remove environmental and social barriers. People with disabilities have the same health needs as non-disabled people- for immunisation, cancer screening etc. They also may experience a narrow margin of health, both because of poverty and social exclusion, and also because they may be vulnerable to secondary conditions, such as pressure sores or urinary tract infections.