Surviving polio in a post-polio world.

Area of Science:

• Global health
• International development
• Public health research

Background:

• Polio cases have decreased by 99% since 1988, signaling near global eradication.
• 20 million people worldwide live with disabling consequences of polio.
• Vulnerable populations, including girls and those in poorer communities, were disproportionately affected by polio in developing countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of disabled polio survivors.
• To highlight public health research, policy, and programming needs.
• To advocate for a shift in focus from eradication to supporting survivors' long-term needs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review
• Discussion
• Field observations

Main Results:

• Millions disabled by polio, particularly in developing countries, face ongoing challenges.
• Survivors often lack access to essential medical, rehabilitation, educational, and social support services.
• The demographic profile of polio survivors has shifted, with a greater proportion being children and young adults from marginalized communities.

Conclusions:

• Polio eradication efforts must be complemented by sustained support for survivors.
• Resources and attention should be redirected to address the long-term rehabilitative, medical, educational, and social needs of polio survivors.
• Ensuring the well-being of polio survivors is essential to completing the commitment to global polio elimination.