WHO: 1 in 6 people face preventable health diseases worldwide

Emmanuel Kwada

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 16 per cent of the global population—over 1.3 billion people—live with some form of disability.

It noted that despite their significant numbers, these individuals often experience poorer health outcomes due to systemic barriers that could be eliminated with better policies and infrastructure.

WHO DG, Dr Tedros. Credit: AFP 

From limited access to healthcare services to neglect in policy planning, persons with disabilities face disproportionately high rates of chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, and premature mortality.

WHO said that these disparities are not caused by disability itself but by external factors such as inaccessible clinics, inadequate training for healthcare providers, and a lack of inclusive health policies.

Health equity for persons with disabilities can’t wait

It noted, “For example, a wheelchair user may miss crucial medical screenings due to inaccessible healthcare facilities, or a deaf patient may struggle to communicate with a doctor untrained in sign language. These gaps in the system contribute to worsening health conditions over time.”

To address these challenges, the Global Disability Summit serves as a crucial platform for governments, organizations, and advocates to push for meaningful change.

The summit seeks to secure commitments to dismantle barriers and improve health equity for persons with disabilities.

These gaps in the system contribute to worsening health conditions over time

Past summits have led to pledges on accessible infrastructure and inclusive education, yet health disparities remain widespread. With the next summit approaching, expectations are high for real action beyond promises.

“Health equity for persons with disabilities can’t wait,” WHO emphasized, underscoring the urgency of the issue.

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