CDC Releases New Data on Number of Children with Disabilities

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has released information from the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children’s Health on more than 35,000 children aged 2 to 8.  As part of this survey, parents were asked "if they had ever been told by a doctor or health care provider that their child had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety problems, behavioral problems such as oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder, Tourette syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, learning disability, intellectual disability, developmental delay, or speech or other language problems."  While the results varied across different states, the overall rate for disabilities was 15.4%, or about 1 in 7 children.  North Carolina's rate was right in line with the national average for the overall rate, at 15.6%.

This data is certainly meaningful when you consider the significant amount of additional resources and support that these children and their families may need throughout their lives.  The CDC captured the implications of this data by reporting that "resources directed toward improving health care and supporting families and communities are needed to prevent mental, emotional and behavioral disorders, and promote healthy development among all young children."

If you would like to learn more about the CDC findings, the article can be found here:

Disability Scoop Article on Release of CDC Data