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People with severe intellectual disabilities live 24 years less
Latest statistics uncover massive health inequalities across society
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Monday 21st September 2026 |
A very concerning report has found that people living with severe intellectual disabilities now have a life expectancy that is 24 years shorter than the general population.
The statistics highlight a massive and persistent health inequality that continues to plague the modern medical system.
Experts point out that these tragic early deaths are frequently caused by entirely preventable physical health conditions that go undiagnosed or untreated due to profound systemic barriers.
People with complex neurodevelopmental and intellectual support needs often struggle to communicate their symptoms, leading to diagnostic overshadowing where serious medical issues are wrongly attributed to their disability.
Furthermore, a severe lack of specialised training among general healthcare professionals means that vital warning signs are regularly missed.
Advocacy groups are demanding an urgent and radical overhaul of how medical care is provided to this highly vulnerable demographic.
They argue that reasonable adjustments, longer appointment times, and dedicated health passports must become mandatory across all health services.
The findings are a stark reminder that society is failing to protect its most marginalised citizens and must take immediate action to drastically improve health outcomes and equity.
Source: The Guardian (UK)
https://www.theguardian.com/society/learningdisability
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