[Changes in the age structure of mentally handicapped patients in Sweden between 1973 and 1982]

Analyzed for the first time in 1973, the age distribution in the Swedish mentally retarded population was reexamined in 1982. Within a decade considerable changes were found to have taken place, whereas the numbers of disabled persons as well as their share in the total population had remained the same. The share of children and, above all, young people up to age 20 is declining considerably per age group. This could be accounted for by the introduction, in the early 70ies, of prenatal diagnosis and its growing impact, as well as by a considerably higher share of abdominal deliveries. The age-group proportion of mentally retarded in the total population of the 25-34 year olds, on the other hand, is markedly higher today than it had been 10 years ago. This fact is thought to be associated with the introduction of antibiotics in Sweden in 1948. The life expectancy of the other, older mentally retarded persons, too, is higher today than in 1973. This is most obviously explained by the substantial improvements that have occurred since in the living conditions for mentally retarded persons.