Children and young people with developmental disabilities face significant and often neglected health challenges that impact their overall well-being and quality of life. These disabilities, which encompass a range of conditions affecting the nervous system and leading to impairments in motor skills, cognition, language, behavior, and sensory functions, pose barriers to their full participation in society. Conditions such as autism, intellectual disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and various neurodevelopmental disorders listed in the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11), as well as congenital conditions like Down syndrome or acquired conditions such as cerebral palsy, are among those that contribute to developmental disabilities.
Despite the diversity and complexity of these conditions, children and young people with developmental disabilities often experience disparities in health outcomes, social inclusion, and access to necessary services. They require specialized interventions tailored to their unique needs to ensure they receive adequate support for optimal health and development. Strengthening these interventions within broader efforts to achieve universal health coverage and promote inclusive environments is crucial. By addressing the health and social needs of children with developmental disabilities, societies can uphold the principle of leaving no one behind, enabling these individuals to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
