The World Health Organization has two current reference classifications for the description of health conditions: ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Health Related Problems) and ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health). The utilization of the ICF is being awaited with high expectations by organizations of people with disabilities and related institutions. The lack of a clear definition of "disability" is being pointed out as a deterrent for promoting the health of people with disabilities. It is important that these definitions, especially for legal and regulatory fields, be consistent and based on a coherent model on the process that leads to situations of disability. This article aims to present elements of the ICD-10 and ICF and their role on definitions of disability. The ICF components could contribute to different fields of applicability regarding the understanding of definitions of disability through functioning and contextual factor concepts.
Classification; IDC-10. ICF; Deficiencies; Incapacity
