Functioning problems linked to top disability-causing conditions in Nigeria: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: The need for rehabilitation in Nigeria is expected to increase because of the concerning rise in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Rehabilitation aims to enhance or restore function in individuals with health conditions. Identifying context- and country-specific functioning problems may assist with strengthening rehabilitation in health systems.

Aim: This scoping review aimed to provide data from peer-reviewed journals on the functioning problems experienced by adults as a result of conditions contributing to the highest associated years lived with disability (YLD).

Setting: This review focused on Nigeria.

Methods: Peer-reviewed articles published between January 2006 and January 2024 were searched across five databases. Using the Rehab4All application, data on functioning problems presenting in 11 conditions contributing to the highest associated YLD in Nigeria were extracted from 131 eligible articles. Functioning problems were deductively coded according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.

Results: Eighty-eight functioning problems were identified. The most prevalent functioning problem was loss of sexual interest, while the most reported problems were related to mental and pain and sensory functions according to the ICF domains. Some functioning problems spanned several ICF domains and categories.

Conclusion: The identification of these functioning problems can guide priority areas in terms of clinical, policy and funding decisions. A multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complexities of certain healthcare conditions.

Contribution: A comprehensive description of functioning problems resulting from conditions contributing to the highest associated YLD in Nigeria, using the Rehab4All application, can assist in strengthening rehabilitation within the healthcare system of Nigeria.