Prevalence of Severe Disability and Its Associated Factors in Northwestern Ethiopia: Evidence From Dabat District of Amhara National Regional State

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the severity, prevalence and reasons for disability in Northwestern Ethiopia. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study design among 17,000 households in 13 Kebeles of Dabat district. The modified 12-item World Health Organization’s Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) and 7-item WHO Domains of Functioning and Health was used to collect survey data. Results: The overall prevalence of severe disability was 9.04%. This prevalence increased with age. Visual impairments were the most commonly reported type of disabilities. In 83% of the study participants, the causes of disability were modifiable, such as illness (36.93%), injury (17.81%), and congenital (10.86%). The elderly, those unable to read and write, the single and the separated were significantly associated with severe disabilities. Conclusion: This study found severe disability is highly prevalent in Dabat district. Visual impairments were the most common reported types of disabilities, followed by mobility and hearing difficulties. Most individuals with disabilities had not completed high school, and employment opportunities were limited. Disability could be prevented through early screening and timely treatment, as many of the risk factors are modifiable.