Measuring prevalence of childhood disability: Addressing family needs while augmenting prevention

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of childhood disability in Kansas, as well as determine the implications for adequate community services to the population and their families. A statewide randomized telephone survey based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) questionnaire, assessing health status of both children and adult respondents was employed. Approximately one in five Kansas households surveyed had at least one child meeting the definition of disability. More parents of children with disabilities had a disability themselves. More of these parents rated their own health and quality of life as good compared to the parents without disabilities.