Prevalence of self-reported disability, activity limitation and social participation in Sri Lanka

Introduction

The World Health Organization estimates that 15% of the global population has a disability. Available evidence from Sri Lanka shows variable estimates of the magnitude of disability.

Objectives

Determine the prevalence of self-reported disability in the adult population aged ≥18 years, and associated risk factors in a nationally representative sample in Sri Lanka.

Methods

The Washington Group short questionnaire was used to identify persons with self-reported disability. Data were collected from responsible adults aged ≥18 years in the selected households. A four point-scale: “no difficulty”, “some difficulty”, “a lot of difficulty” and “cannot do at all” was used. Individuals screening positive for disability were administered an additional questionnaire on activity limitations, social participation and their health and financial concerns.

Results

Overall 41.5% (4131) [95% CI: 40.5-42.4] reported functional difficulty in at least one domain. The prevalence of disability, i.e. a lot of difficulty or cannot do at all was 3.8% (382) [95% CI: 3.5 – 4.2], while the prevalence of “some functional difficulty” was 37.6% (3749) [95% CI: 36.7-38.6].

The prevalence of disability increased with age and was higher among females, urban residents, and those with lower education and socio-economic status. Minor degrees of functional difficulties were more common among older people, females and people with lower education.

Conclusions

The prevalence of disability and varying degrees of functional difficulty is high among the adult population of Sri Lanka. Evidence shows that a strategic plan is required to address the magnitude of disability and functional limitations in Sri Lanka.