The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #45341

Patricia M Welch, MSSA, George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, 7525 Forsyth Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63105, 314-721-2717, welchp@gwbmail.wustl.edu

Disability is a pervasive health issue with worldwide social, economic, and political implications. The relationship between disability and poverty is both complex and multifarious. Disability is associated with less employment, lower income, and an increased likelihood of experiencing poverty. Poverty functions as a proxy for many variables that increase the risk of disability, such as poor health and nutrition. Disentangling the relationship between disability and poverty – specifically the ways in which poor health, disability and economic inequality are related – is critical for developing effective public health and social policy and consequently, for affecting the lives of those who experience disability and/or poverty. While disability and poverty are present throughout the world, significant differences exist between developing and developed countries. It is estimated that the majority of the world’s poor and proportionately more individuals with disabilities live in developing countries. This presentation explores these intersections within the context of developing countries. Qualitative and quantitative studies and available data related to this area will be reviewed. Results of a recent case study of Nepal will be discussed to explain the causes and consequences of disability and poverty on individuals, family households, and communities.

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