People with an intellectual disability more likely to develop asthma and diabetes

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-08-25 04:00

Australia; NSW

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Australian researchers brought together the data from 77 previous studies on links between intellectual disability and other health issues in high-income countries, and say people with an intellectual disability are more likely to develop some other health problems, particularly asthma and diabetes, than those without a disability. However, cancers and circulatory problems were not more common among those with an intellectual disability, although that may reflect under-detection, the authors say. The findings highlight the complexity of the health profile of people with intellectual disabilities, and the need for targeted health initiatives, the authors conclude.