Ensuring holistic development of disabled children in developing countries

Abstract

A disability is a sort of disadvantage that either restricts or prevents the given person in the discharge of the roles/duties that are considered normal for that person. Disabled children belong to one of the most vulnerable and marginalised sections of society and have to deal with multiple challenges in their day-to-day life, especially in developing countries. Owing to the enormous magnitude and global distribution, it is of foremost importance to plan and implement cost-effective strategies to reduce the magnitude of the problem. In fact, a major proportion of etiological factors can be neutralised, if policy-makers can ensure universal implementation of primary prevention strategies well supported with the strengthening of existing infrastructure and a comprehensive welfare policy. In conclusion, programme managers, health care professionals, and society should recognise disabled children’s special needs and hence assist them in all possible ways to facilitate their adaptation to the neighbouring environment.