Year In Review: Top Disability Stories Of 2010

From health care to pop culture, developmental disabilities permeated the news in 2010. Here are our picks for the disability stories of the year.

Living Near A Freeway May Raise Autism Risk

Children born to mothers who live near a freeway are twice as likely to develop autism as those who do not, a new study suggests.

Study To Tackle Obesity Epidemic Among People With Disabilities

Researchers are embarking on a first-of-its-kind study looking at obesity among young people with disabilities, aiming to find out why it’s so common and what the ramifications are.

Congressman Calls For Hearing Amid Questions About Children’s SSI Program

A Massachusetts representative is calling for a congressional hearing to examine if children are being overprescribed medication specifically to qualify for SSI.

Rich Get Most From Special Education In Nation’s Largest District

Children from wealthy families draw more money and receive better services from New York City public schools than their less affluent peers, data indicates.

For Poor, Disability Benefits Offer Sought After Income

SSI is an easy source of cash, many poor families say, acknowledging that they work hard to gain a disability label for their kids and do not fess up if a child outgrows their difficulties.

Former Morgan Stanley Broker Guilty Of Special Needs Fraud

A New York financial adviser pled guilty Monday to defrauding children with disabilities and now faces prison time and potential fines.

Musicians With Disabilities To Perform At Royal Weddings

An Austrian band comprised of musicians with physical and mental disabilities will perform at two royal weddings next year.

Adults With Autism Forced To Make Tough Therapy Decisions

Medicaid cuts are forcing some adults with autism to make a tough call: choose between therapy to address their behavioral needs or life skills training.

Concerns Emerge As Schools Move To Raise Special Education Standards

In an effort to encourage more students with disabilities to earn regular diplomas, Florida officials are doing away with so-called “modified courses.”

Violent Crime Odds Double For People With Disabilities

People with disabilities experienced violent crime at twice the rate of those without disabilities in 2008, according to newly released data.

Young People With Disabilities Increasingly Entering Nursing Homes

The number of young adults moving into nursing homes is on the rise and advocates say the reason could be a lack of resources available for people to stay in the community.

National Campaign To Challenge Disability Stereotypes, Promote Inclusion

Spearheaded by a group of 20 teenagers, a national campaign is kicking off this month designed to reshape youth perceptions of inclusion and ideas about what’s “normal.”