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[Definition and prevalence of school-age multi-handicaps]
C Rumeau-Rouquette1, C du Mazaubrun, C Cans
1Inserm U149, 123, Paris, France.
Summary
Defining multi-handicap in children is complex, with prevalence varying by definition. This study highlights the need for precise definitions to accurately estimate the needs of multi-handicapped children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Disability Studies
Context:
- French regulations define multi-handicap for services to children.
- Divergent application of definitions leads to varied prevalence rates across regions.
Purpose:
- To clarify the definition and prevalence of multi-handicap in children.
- To analyze the heterogeneity within the multi-handicapped population.
Summary:
- A survey of children born 1975-1985 in three French departments was conducted.
- Prevalence varied from 0.73% (restrictive definition) to 1.28% (broader definition).
- The multi-handicapped group demonstrated significant heterogeneity.
Impact:
- Emphasizes the critical need for clearly defined operational objectives when defining multi-handicap.
- Improved definition accuracy is essential for better estimation of specific service needs for disabled children.