Every year on December 3rd, the world observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a moment to reflect on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and to advocate for their dignity, rights, and well-being.

Historically, persons with disabilities have been underrecognized as a distinct population in public health initiatives. However, recent research has illuminated the urgent health needs within this community. Krahn et al., (2015) emphasize that individuals with disabilities represent an unrecognized health disparity population, highlighting the necessity for their full inclusion in health discussions and interventions. Similarly, Wilber et al., (2002) assert that the health status of people with disabilities has rightly emerged as a focal point for public health attention—one that demands engagement from policymakers, researchers, and advocates alike.

Despite this growing recognition, people with disabilities continue to face multiple barriers—financial, structural, and cultural—when seeking access to healthcare services (Drainoni et al., 2006). As a diverse group experiencing significant limitations in daily functioning, they are often excluded from full participation in society and from equal access to health opportunities.

Integrating disability into public health planning is essential to address these long-standing inequities. On this day, we are reminded of the imperative to both celebrate the equal rights and intrinsic value of persons with disabilities and to acknowledge the systemic challenges they continue to face.

As a pharmacist, I advocate for a comprehensive approach to reducing health inequities among individuals with disabilities. This includes ensuring better healthcare access, embedding disability into the core of public health strategies, and enhancing awareness to support inclusive and evidence-based policy decisions.

References:

Drainoni, M. et al. (2006). Cross-disability experiences of barriers to health care access. J Disabil Policy Stu, 17:101–15.

Krahn, G. L., Walker, D. K. et al. (2015). Persons with disabilities as an unrecognized health disparity population. American Journal of Public Health, 105: S198–S206.

Wilber, N., Mitra, M. et al. (2002). Disability as a public health issue: findings and reflections from the Massachusetts survey of secondary conditions. Milbank Q., 80(2):393–421.