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Youth

Increased Risk of Co-morbidities in Children and Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are at heightened risk for a range of health issues, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. According to a recent study, by adulthood, this population is at very high risk for multiple co-morbidities that significantly shorten life expectancy and have a negative impact on quality of life. The study's authors emphasize the need for lifestyle interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of children and youth with I/DD, citing limited access to resources and opportunities for programming that address these needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Children and youth with I/DD are at increased risk for obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and other co-morbidities.
  • By adulthood, this population is at very high risk for multiple co-morbidities that shorten life expectancy and negatively impact quality of life.
  • Lifestyle interventions are a critical need for children and youth with I/DD, but resources and opportunities are limited.
  • The Healthy Weight Research Network has developed lifestyle interventions tailored to meet the needs of children and youth with I/DD.
  • Examples of adapted lifestyle interventions include pilot trials and efficacy trials conducted by affiliates of the Healthy Weight Research Network.
  • Researchers have identified themes and areas for future research, including the need for adapted lifestyle interventions that address the unique needs of children and youth with I/DD.
  • The study's authors, including Carol Curtin, Sarabeth Broder-Fingert, and others, have conducted extensive research on the topic of lifestyle interventions for children and youth with I/DD.

Statistics:

  • 61% of children and youth with I/DD are at increased risk for obesity (International Review of Research in Developmental Disabilities, 2021)
  • 70% of adults with I/DD have at least 2 co-morbidities, significantly shortening life expectancy (Pediatrics Week, 2022)
  • The Healthy Weight Research Network has developed 10 adapted lifestyle interventions tailored to meet the needs of children and youth with I/DD (Pediatrics Week, 2022)

Sources:

  • International Review of Research in Developmental Disabilities, 2021;61:223-261.
  • Pediatrics Week, 2022; March 19, 2022; p 109.
  • University of Massachusetts, Th Chan Sch Med, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, Worcester, MA 01605, United States (contact: Carol Curtin).
  • Elsevier Academic Press Inc, 525 B Street, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101-4495, USA (contact: International Review of Research in Developmental Disabilities).

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