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disability Audio
dis·a·bil·i·ty [ dis-uh-bil-i-tee ]
Definitions related to disability:
  • A person becomes a claimant under a disability income insurance policy or a disability rehabilitation program because of a health condition or injury which limits the person's ability to earn an income or function without institutionalization.
    NCI Health Level 7 Vocabulary
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2018
  • Any physical or mental impairment that interferes with an individual's ability to perform desired activities.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • (disabilities) A disability is any condition of your body or mind that makes it more difficult for you to do one or more major life activities and interact with the world around you. There are many types of disabilities, such as those that can affect your: Vision; Hearing; Movement; Thinking; Remembering; Learning; Communicating; Development; Mental health; Social relationships. More than 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some type of disability. Even though they all have disabilities, they can have a wide range of needs. For example, even people who have same type of disability can be affected in very different ways. Also, some disabilities are "visible" (easy to see), for example when someone is in a wheelchair. But other disabilities are "invisible" (hidden or not easy to see), such as problems with hearing, thinking, or learning. Disabilities can have different causes. Some disabilities are present at birth, while others may happen later in life. Causes of disabilities that are present at birth can include: Disorders in single genes, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy; Disorders of chromosomes, such as Down syndrome; Exposures (before birth) to infections or substances, such as drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes. Causes of disabilities that happen later in life can include: Injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and back injuries; Chronic (long-lasting) diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, COPD, and arthritis; Cancer; Mental health problems; Stroke; Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia. Having a disability does not mean a person cannot be healthy. In fact, many people with disabilities report that their health as good or better. But they may have or be at risk of health problems related to their disability, called "secondary conditions." These conditions may include: Bowel or bladder problems; Chronic pain; Diabetes; Fatigue; Heart disease; Injuries; Mental health problems, including depression and substance use disorders; Overweight and obesity; Pressure sores or ulcers. Many of these conditions can be prevented, and there are treatments for them. It's also important for people with disabilities to get health care that meets their needs as a whole person, not just as a person with a disability. Just like for people who don't have a disability, having a healthy lifestyle is important for people who do have a disability. A healthy lifestyle includes: Getting regular physical activity; Eating...
    MedlinePlus
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.

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