International day of persons with disabilities – 3rd December
Global public health awareness days aim to increase visibility, awareness, and understanding of specific diseases or health conditions among the general public; they are key in highlighting the importance of healthy lifestyle and well-being among general population. Each year, various organizations and communities around the world actively participate in promoting and supporting World Health Days.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed on December 3rd, promotes the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with disabilities globally. Over 1 billion individuals, or 15% of the world’s population, live with disabilities, with 80% residing in developing countries.
These individuals face significant barriers to healthcare, including attitudinal, physical, communication, and financial obstacles. There is an urgent need to enhance disability inclusion across health systems, requiring collaboration between governments and various sectors to address these barriers effectively.
Despite global efforts, progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for persons with disabilities remains insufficient. The UN Disability Inclusion Strategy, launched in 2019, aims to ensure that the rights of people with disabilities are integral to all UN activities.
A fundamental shift in commitment and action is essential to improve the lives of persons with disabilities and ensure they are not left behind in global development efforts.
Authors: Ritah Namusoosa1*, Hannington Katumba2
Institutional affiliation: 1Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program-Laboratory Leadership Program; Uganda National Institute of Public Health; Ministry of Health Kampala, Uganda; 2Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program-Field Epidemiology Training Program; Uganda National Institute of Public Health; Ministry of Health Kampala, Uganda
Correspondence *Tel: +256785842878 email: rnamusoosa@uniph.go.ug
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