- Genetic Predisposition to certain diseases
- social determinants 
  - Less favorable circumstances
  - Experiencing discrimination
- Residential experiences that promote unhealthy lifestyle choices
- Inactivity

Cedarville University

Individuals with ID may have limited resources and access to health care which can result in a detrimental impact on their health.

Health in Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ID)

O'Dwyer, M., McCallion, P., McCarron, M., & Henman, M. (2018). Medication use and potentially inappropriate prescribing in older adults with intellectual disabilities: a neglected area of research. Therapeutic advances in drug safety, 9(9), 535–557. https://doi.org/10.1177/2042098618782785

Medication use and potentially inappropriate prescribing in older adults with intellectual disabilities: a neglected area of research

Risks of Chronic Health Conditions in Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

In comparison to the general population, People with ID:
- Experience a different pattern of chronic diseases
- Higher prevalence of mental health conditions and neurological conditions
 - Higher rates of multimorbidity
   - Two or more chronic conditions

Comorbid Health Conditions in Individuals with ID

- Individuals with ID may be poor reporters of their own health
- The history of the present illness is typically determined by the family members or caregivers rather than the patient
- Accuracy in diagnosing
  - It becomes increasingly challenging depending on the severity and intensity of the patient's disability and communication difficulties

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