The Prevalence of Impairments and Disabilities in the North West Region (Cameroon)

ABSTRACT

Purpose: This project addressed the lack of disability prevalence data in the North West Region of Cameroon. Methods: A multi-stage cluster design was used; and included urban; semi-urban and rural areas. In the first stage; the team screened 3;933 households; representing an estimated screening sample of 18; 878 individuals. In the second stage; structured interviews were conducted. The interviews included the International Classification of Functioning; Disability and Health (ICF) Checklist to confirm disability status and determine the nature of disability. Results: A total sample of 1;233 individuals screened positive for having a disability. According to this study's cluster design the prevalence of screening positive for disability in this region was 6.9 (95 CLs 5.7-8.2) and the population prevalence of disability was 6.2 (95 CLs 5.2-7.2 CLs 5.2-7.2). Of the individuals who screened positive for disability; 1;106 (89.7) of them had a participation restriction or activity limitation which was of moderate severity or greater; suggesting that the screening tool was useful for identifying many persons living with moderate or severe disability but not very sensitive at identifying people with minor disabilities. Conclusions: Although certain limitations in the study's methods must be taken into account; these results can be used to justify the need for; and inform the design of; programming for individuals with disabilities in this region