Causes of Impairment and Vulnerability

            HiLCoE School of Computer

                  DRB2503A

Group Members:

Benti Semlagn

Biruk

Amanuel

Abduselam

                                                        Instructor: Ewnetim Kassaye

                                                                     Date: April 4, 2026

Introduction

Review of inclusiveness module (Chapter 1, Section 1.3)

Focus on causes of impairment and vulnerability

Objectives:

- Summarize key ideas

- Analyze strengths & weaknesses

- Provide insights (Ethiopian context)

Key Concepts

Use respectful language:

- Persons with health conditions

- Individuals with functional limitations

Avoid harmful terms

Importance of inclusiveness

Causes of Impairment (Overview)

Two main categories:

1. Biological causes

2. Environmental causes

Scientific explanation replaces superstition

Biological Causes

Genetic abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome)

Diseases and genetic disorders

Exposure to X-rays

Pre-term birth / low birth weight

Environmental Causes

Poverty and malnutrition

Drug/alcohol use during pregnancy

Childhood diseases (measles, etc.)

Toxic substances (lead, mercury)

Accidents (war, car, drowning)

Causes of Vulnerability

Poor governance

Poverty

Discrimination

Inequality

Affected groups:

Children, elderly, pregnant women, sick individuals

Strengths of the Study

Scientific approach

Clear classification

Relevant to Ethiopia

Recognizes systemic issues

Weaknesses of the Study

No recent data

No prevention strategies

Limited explanation of vulnerability

No real-life examples

No intersectional analysis

Insights & Conclusion

Culture influences beliefs

Poverty is a root cause

Vulnerability can be hidden

Prevention is possible

Language matters

Conclusion: Step toward inclusive society