Rights group says disabled in Brazil needlessly confined.

SAO PAULO – Human Rights Watch says thousands of physically and mentally disabled children and adults in Brazil are “needlessly confined” to institutions where they suffer neglect and abuse.

The report entitled “They Stay Until They Die” was released on Wednesday.

It says: “Many people with disabilities in Brazil are locked away in institutions in abysmal conditions, with no control over their lives.” It urges the government to ensure that people with disabilities get the support they need “to live in the community just like everyone else.”

The report is based on 171 interviews with disabled people, family members and experts on disability rights, as well as visits to 19 institutions in four states.

Brazil’s Human Rights Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.