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Millions of Americans Report Having A Disability
12 May 2006
by Anai Rhoads Ford
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AnaiRhoads.org -
There are an estimated 50 million people with a disability in the United
States, according to a report
released Friday by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The document shows that 18 percent, or 51.2 million, of Americans
have reported some sort of a disability in the year 2002, while 12
percent. or 32.5 million, said they suffered from a more severe
disability.
Among the U.S. population, of those aged 15 and older, 2.7 million
used a wheelchair and 9.1 million use an ambulatory aid such as a cane,
crutches or a walker. Also, approximately 14.3 million people in America
suffer from a mental disorder, which only compounds the problem.
"The demographic snapshots contained in this report help planners and
decision-makers assess the needs of this important segment of our
population," said Census Bureau Director Louis Kincannon. Americans
with Disabilities: 2002 was compiled from the Survey of Income and
Program Participation.
People with a severe disability had an increased likelihood of living
below the poverty level, having poor quality of life and health, and
are on Medicare, Medicaid or other assistance.
The report focused on people who have limited to no sight, those with
hearing problems, and those with specific conditions such as
Alzheimer's disease or autism.
There are 4 million children between the ages of 6 to 14 who have a
disability. Among children with compromised cognitive skills, and
those with autism, the report showed the percentage was as high as 6
percent.
Fortunately, autism rates began dropping when thimerosal was removed from several
childhood vaccines according to the March 10th issue of the Journal of American
Physicians and Surgeons. Rates of autism and other neurological
disorders in children dropped by as much as 35 percent.
©2006 Anai Rhoads Ford. Reproduction must be authorised in writing
by author only. Altering, redistributing, or selling this material is
strictly prohibited.
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