Investigator(s)
| Submitter |
Tshering JAMTSHO Research & Innovation Division MECRIT, KGUMSB Tshering JAMTSHO 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Tshering JAMTSHO Research & Innovation Division MECRIT, KGUMSB Tshering JAMTSHO
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Thinley Dorji Monitoring Evaluation Accountability Learning (MEAL) Save the Children Bhutan Office Thinley Dorji
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Yangchen Lodey Thinley Child Protection Unit Save the Children International, Bhutan Office Yangchen Lodey Thinley
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Tashi Dendup Save the Children International, Bhutan Office Tashi Dendup
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Kinley Dorjee Research & Information Unit, PPD Ministry of Health Kinley Dorjee
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Mongal Singh Gurung Research & Information Unit, PPD Ministry of Health Mongal Singh Gurung
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Sonam Wangdi Research & Information Unit, PPD Ministry of Health Sonam Wangdi
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | The Burden and Factors Associated with Disabilities in Bhutan |
| Public title | The Burden and Factors Associated with Disabilities in Bhutan |
| Background | Children with disabilities, as defined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, are those with long-term impairments that, when combined with societal barriers, hinder full and equal participation. These children often face limited access to education, healthcare, and social services, and are at greater risk of neglect, discrimination, and poverty. Globally, around 236.4 million children (10.1%) aged 0–17 years have moderate-to-severe disabilities, with most living in low- and middle-income countries. Risk factors include low socioeconomic status, minority background, maternal mental illness, and teenage pregnancy. Biological and perinatal contributors such as advanced maternal age, prematurity, low birth weight, male sex, and genetic conditions also increase vulnerability. In Bhutan, the 2017 Population and Housing Census reported a 2.6% prevalence of disability in those aged ≥15 years. The 2023 National Health Survey (NHS) reported a 6.8% overall prevalence, and 5.6% among children. A 2010 study found 21% of children aged 2–9 years had at least one disability. Self-care was the most prevalent type (2.4%), followed by hearing and mobility (2% each), with prevalence increasing with age. Traditional beliefs in Bhutan often link disability to past deeds, influencing social perceptions and contributing to stigma. There is also limited awareness and narrow definitions of disability, which may hinder early identification and intervention. Data shows higher disability prevalence in rural areas, low-income and low-education groups, and in central and eastern regions. Older children are more affected than younger ones. Understanding these patterns is vital for targeted policy and planning. |
| Objectives | Identifying at-risk populations allows for inclusive interventions that reduce risk, support participation, and promote the well-being of children with disabilities. Therefore, this study aims to determine the risk factors associated with disability in children in Bhutan. The main objectives are to: 1. Determine the prevalence of disabilities in children by type, area of residence, age, and gender. 2. Examine the risk factors associated with disability in children by area of residence, region, and gender. |
| Study Methods | This will be a cross-sectional study. The study will use the nationally representative data set of the most recent NHS conducted in 2023 by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the National Statistics Bureau. The survey was aimed to examine population health indicators and trends and was designed to ensure comparability with previous national health surveys and to align with international standards, particularly for Sustainable Development Goal indicators. It followed the standard methodology and questions of the Demography and Health Survey, and the WHO NCD STEPS conducted worldwide. The NHS 2023 followed a modular, stepwise approach to data collection. It included questionnaire-based modules (STEP 1), physical measurements (STEP 2), and laboratory tests (STEP 3). The household questionnaire collected demographic information on all members and the household. It covered topics like disability, health, malaria, dietary diversity, alcohol consumption, household expenditure, and practices on child discipline, among others. The individual questionnaire (for individuals aged 15-69 years) collected data on health knowledge and behaviours. It covered topics like service use, tobacco and alcohol use, dietary habits, physical activity, mental health, chronic diseases, and included physical measurements taken during household interviews. The women and child questionnaire collected data from women of reproductive age on topics such as reproduction, contraception, pregnancy, and child health and nutrition. It also included issues like marriage, sexual activity, fertility preferences, intimate partner violence, and victimization. |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | Data on factors influencing disability in children is limited in Bhutan. This study aims to identify these factors, which could help inform policies to reduce the risk of disabilities, prevent related adverse impacts and outcomes, and aid planning and resource allocation. Since the study will use nationally representative data, the findings are expected to apply widely across Bhutan and contribute to existing research. The findings from this research will be shared with the Ministry of Health and relevant government and non-governmental agencies and organizations. Efforts will be made to disseminate the study through conferences and publication in journals. |
| Keywords | burden, factors children, disability, bhutan |
Research Details
| Student research | No |
| Start Date | 01-Mar-2025 |
| End Date | 31-Aug-2025 |
| Key Implementing Institution | Save the Children |
| Multi-country research | Yes |
| Bhutan | |
| Nationwide research | Yes |
| Research Domain(s) | Maternal, Reproductive and Child Health |
| Research field(s) | Child Health |
| Involves human subjects | No |
| Data Collection | Secondary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | No |