Disability stigma and rehabilitation access: a cross-sectional community-based study in low-resource Nigerian adults

Rehabilitation is essential for functional independence, yet over 2.4 billion people globally lack access. Evidence on stigma’s measurable effect on rehabilitation access is limited, especially among adults. This study examined how disability stigma influences rehabilitation access among adults with physical disabilities in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, Cross River State Nigeria. A community-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 633 adults with physical disabilities. Data were collected using a validated Disability Stigma Scale, a multidimensional rehabilitation access index (availability, affordability, geographic accessibility, utilisation), and WHODAS 2.0. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between stigma and inadequate access, adjusting for socio-demographic and disability factors. Interaction analysis tested effect modification by disability severity and income. High stigma was prevalent, and adolescents experiencing high stigma had significantly higher odds of inadequate rehabilitation access (AOR 2.84; 95% CI 2.01–4.02; p < 0.001). The effect of stigma was amplified among those with severe disability (AOR 3.25; 95% CI 2.15–4.92), indicating compounded disadvantage. Disability stigma is a major structural barrier to rehabilitation in low-resource settings. Policies must integrate stigma reduction into rehabilitation planning and prioritise community-based services to achieve equitable access.