Overview of the Important Physical Health Concerns

People with intellectual disability present with higher levels of chronic conditions and multi-morbidity, greater complex health needs and earlier mortality as compared to their peers without identified life-long disabilities. The growing and international evidence addressed here confirms that obesity, poor cardiovascular health, osteoporosis, falls and fractures, gastrointestinal conditions, sensory impairment, oral health compromises, increased dementia prevalence and polypharmacy concerns are further compromising that health. That supporting the health of persons with intellectual disability is not universally part of the core training of healthcare professionals is a further concern. Attention to such education will result in greater awareness and knowledge will be key to improving the health and well-being of people with intellectual disability.