Epidemiology of disability in a rural community of Karnataka.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and pattern of disability in all age groups in a rural community of Karnataka. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted during January-December 2004 among 1000 study subjects of all age groups selected randomly from four villages under rural field practice area of a teaching institution. Subjects were interviewed and examined using a predesigned schedule. Percentage prevalence, chi square test and multiple logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The prevalence of disability was found to be 6.3%. Both physical and mental disabilities are of great concern in this area. 80% of the disabled had multiple disabilities. Knowledge and occupation plays a major role as determinants of disability. Chronic medical conditions are also more common among disabled.