Prevalence and Risk of Violence Among People With Disabilities in China: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Abstract

Background

Individuals with disabilities are vulnerable to violence, but the prevalence and risk of violence against this population in China remain unclear.

Objective

This study aims to examine the prevalence, risk (using odds ratios), and potential moderators of violence against people with disabilities in China.

Methods

A comprehensive search of both Chinese and English databases was conducted, identifying 47 eligible observational studies. A three-level meta-analysis was used to summarize the prevalence and odds ratios (ORs) across studies. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential moderators.

Results

The meta-analysis found the overall prevalence of violence against individuals with disabilities in China was 32.16% (95% CI [25.87%, 38.77%]). The pooled odds ratio indicated that people with disabilities were 2.13 times more likely to experience violence than those without (95% CI [1.69, 2.67]). Both estimates were higher than global figures. Significant heterogeneity was present (I² = 98.50% for prevalence; I² = 77.18% for ORs). Subgroup analyses identified several significant moderators, including sampling strategy, sample size, age, educational setting, perpetrator, violence type, respondent, and assessment time-frame.

Conclusions

The prevalence and risk of violence against people with disabilities in China are high. The findings highlight the critical need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies. The significant moderators identified should be considered in future research and policy-making.