On December 3, the world marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, spotlighting the health disparities and systemic barriers affecting 1.3 billion people globally—16% of the population.
According to data from the World Health Organization, individuals with significant disabilities face stark health inequities, often dying up to 20 years earlier than those without disabilities.
They are twice as likely to suffer from depression, asthma, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and poor oral health.
Transportation remains a major hurdle, with access being 15 times more difficult for persons with disabilities.
These inequities stem from stigma, discrimination, poverty, exclusion, and structural challenges within health systems.
