The General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) in Saudi Arabia conducted a survey revealing that about 1.8% of the population in the country experiences some form of disability. The survey aimed to collect data on the types of disabilities, their causes, the characteristics of individuals with disabilities, and their geographical distribution. The results from the disability survey for the year 2023 showed that the number of people with a visual disability in Saudi Arabia was 21.8%, while the rate of individuals with a hearing disability stood at 7%. Additionally, the survey revealed that 52.6% of individuals had a mobility disability (inability to walk).
The report also provided insights into the age groups affected by disabilities. For individuals in the age group of 2-4 years, 68.2% had more than one disability, while 83.1% had one disability. In the age group of 5-17 years, 60% had more than one disability, while 40% had one disability. For individuals aged 18 years and above, 58% had more than one disability, while 42% had one disability. Disease and congenital factors were identified as the most common causes of disability, accounting for 39.2% and 26.9% respectively.
The data also highlighted the prevalence of disabilities within families. The survey found that 79.7% of families included at least one person with a disability, across all degrees of severity. Additionally, 20.3% of families had more than one member with a disability. This information provides valuable insights into the impact of disabilities on families and emphasizes the need for support and resources to cater to individuals with disabilities in Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, the disability survey conducted by GASTAT in Saudi Arabia revealed important statistics regarding the prevalence of disabilities in the country. The data highlighted the types of disabilities, their causes, as well as the demographic characteristics of individuals with disabilities. It also shed light on the distribution of disabilities across different age groups, with a focus on the percentage of individuals with multiple disabilities. Additionally, the survey emphasized the high percentage of families with members who have disabilities, underscoring the importance of providing support and resources to those in need. This information is crucial for policymakers and organizations working towards improving accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities in Saudi Arabia.
