Factors associated with death in people with intellectual disability

People with intellectual disability (ID) experience higher mortality than the general population. This study examines factors contributing to deaths in people with intellectual disability.

Linked administrative data spanning ten years for 49,947 people with intellectual disability receiving disability services were analysed to assess the impact of demographic variables, comorbidities and health service utilization on the risk of death using Cox proportional hazard models.

People admitted for cancer were 8 times more likely to die within the study period compared to people not admitted for cancer. Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and heart disease also increased the risk of death. Emergency department presentations and/or mental health admissions increased the risk of death 4 times.

Our findings provide a basis for policy changes and public health interventions. Cancer screening, mental health interventions, inclusion of people with intellectual disability in health policy and improved health care are needed to meet the needs of this population.