Singapore Network for Inclusive Learning
Singapore Network for Inclusive Learning
Understanding the Prevalence of Disabilities in Singapore: A Breakdown
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Disability is an important area of focus in Singapore as the country continues to evolve toward inclusivity and accessibility for all its citizens. While a wide range of disabilities exist, the prevalence and specific types of disabilities may vary based on the population and available services. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the types of disabilities commonly found in Singapore, offering estimates based on available statistics and research.
Types of Disabilities in Singapore
Singapore is home to a diverse population, and with that diversity comes a variety of disabilities. The following table breaks down the common types of disabilities in Singapore, including their approximate prevalence and percentage of the population.
Type of Disability | Approximate Number of People | Percentage of Population |
Physical Disabilities | 110,000 | 2.1% |
Sensory Disabilities (hearing/visual) | 63,000 | 1.2% |
Intellectual Disabilities | 42,000 | 0.8% |
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) | 33,000 | 0.6% |
Mental Health Disabilities | 17,000 | 0.3% |
Developmental Disabilities | 12,000 | 0.2% |
This table serves as a starting point, offering insight into the broader categories of disabilities in Singapore. However, it’s also important to recognize that each category encompasses specific conditions that further define the needs and challenges faced by individuals.
Breaking Down the Specific Disabilities
Let’s dive deeper into each type of disability to understand the specific conditions that fall under these categories:
Physical Disabilities Physical disabilities can include a wide range of conditions that impact a person’s mobility or physical capabilities. In Singapore, the most common physical disabilities are related to conditions like stroke or cerebral palsy.
Cerebral Palsy: ~1,500 people
Muscular Dystrophy: ~400 people
Stroke-related impairments: ~26,000 people
Amputation: ~3,000 people
Sensory Disabilities Sensory disabilities refer to impairments in hearing or vision, affecting thousands of individuals across Singapore.
Hearing Impairments: ~45,000 people (including those who are deaf or hard of hearing)
Visual Impairments: ~13,000 people (including those with blindness or low vision)
Intellectual Disabilities Intellectual disabilities can impact a person’s learning and cognitive development. The most commonly recognized conditions in this category include:
Down Syndrome: ~800 people
Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD): ~25,000 people
Global Developmental Delay: ~5,000 people
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Autism spectrum disorders encompass a variety of conditions affecting social communication, behavior, and development. The estimated numbers in Singapore include:
High-functioning Autism: ~10,000 people
Classic Autism: ~15,000 people
Asperger’s Syndrome: ~8,000 people
Mental Health Disabilities Mental health conditions that significantly impair day-to-day functioning also fall under the category of disabilities. Some of the most commonly recognized mental health disabilities include:
Schizophrenia: ~7,500 people
Bipolar Disorder: ~4,000 people
Severe Depression: ~2,500 people
Anxiety Disorders: ~2,000 people
Developmental Disabilities Developmental disabilities can impact a person’s growth, learning, or behavior. Conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia are some of the more common developmental disabilities:
ADHD: ~5,000 people
Specific Learning Disabilities (Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): ~4,500 people
Speech and Language Disorders: ~2,500 people
How These Statistics Are Derived
These numbers are estimates based on data provided by a variety of local and global sources. Some of the key references include:
Singapore’s Enabling Masterplan: A government initiative outlining disability inclusion goals, offering key statistics on persons with disabilities in Singapore.
Autism Resource Centre (Singapore): Provides valuable insights into autism prevalence and support systems in Singapore.
Dyslexia Association of Singapore: Offers data on the prevalence of learning disabilities such as dyslexia.
Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf) and Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH): Provide estimates for sensory disabilities.
World Health Organization (WHO): Offers global prevalence rates that were used to estimate figures for certain conditions in Singapore’s population of roughly 5.7 million.
Why This Data Matters
Understanding the prevalence of disabilities in Singapore helps inform policies, services, and support systems that aim to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. As Singapore continues its journey towards becoming an inclusive society, this data is essential for raising awareness and ensuring that the right resources and accommodations are in place.
Towards a More Inclusive Singapore
Through initiatives like the Enabling Masterplan and the work of organizations such as the Singapore Network for Inclusive Learning (SNIL), Singapore is making strides in supporting individuals with disabilities. By focusing on accessibility, inclusivity, and support services, Singapore is working towards a future where everyone, regardless of their abilities, has equal opportunities to thrive.
