Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

The prevalence of chronic conditions and illnesses causing disability in Israeli Jewish children aged 2 to 3 years, born in 1980, was studied on the basis of a national sample (n = 9,854). Seventy-six principle medical conditions causing disability were defined. The study showed a total disability rate of 8.9%. Very low birth weight and family problems were considered risk factors for developmental delay or for disability. The prevalence of the children at risk was 2.4%. The disability rate among this group was 6 to 7.5 times greater than in the total population. Data were analyzed by selected demographic characteristics. Speech and language disorders and undefined developmental delay were more prevalent among children of mothers with a low educational level. Speech and language disorders were also more prevalent among children born to mothers of Asian origin. Speech and language disorders, asthma and spastic bronchitis, hearing impairment and undefined developmental delay were more prevalent among male children. This is the first comprehensive nation-wide prevalence study of children with disabilities in Israel.

Type

Journal

Isr J Med Sci

Publication Date

05/1989

Volume

25

Pages

264 - 270

Keywords

Birth Order, Birth Weight, Child, Preschool, Cross-Sectional Studies, Developmental Disabilities, Persons with Disabilities, Educational Status, Female, Health Surveys, Humans, Israel, Male, Maternal Age, Risk Factors