Disabilities in kids rise; not physical problems
CHICAGO (AP) — Disabilities among U.S. children have increased slightly, with a bigger rise in mental and developmental problems in those from wealthier families, a 10-year analysis found.
Disadvantaged kids still bear a disproportionate burden.
The increases may partly reflect more awareness and recognition that conditions, including autism, require a specific diagnosis to receive special services, the researchers said.
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The researchers studied parents' responses about children from birth through age 17 gathered in 2000-2011 government-conducted health surveys. Parents were asked about disabilities from chronic conditions including hearing or vision problems; bone or muscle ailments; and mental, behavioral or developmental problems that limited kids' physical abilities or required them to receive early behavioral intervention or special educational services. Nearly 200,000 children were involved.
Results were published online Monday in Pediatrics.
full: http://bigstory.ap.org/article/disabilities-kids-rise-not-physical-problems