Prevention of disabilities linked to chronic diseases (2006)

Worldwide diseases have changed to include more chronic conditions, while the majority of current health systems continue to provide treatment and acute care rather than continuity of care. Even more dramatic changes in the health needs of the world population are anticipated, with non-communicable diseases as the leading cause of disability.The present report, drawn up by a Council of Europe Committee of Experts, proposes appropriate means of prevention aimed at reducing disabilities caused by chronic diseases.The setting up of individualised programmes of psycho-social rehabilitation aiming at the full development of the person, and measures to promote the full integration of people with disabilities into society are some of the recommendations made.