Their health needs differ and need to be recognised and met

People with intellectual disabilities comprise about 2% of the UK population. Demographics are, however, changing and the population of people with intellectual disabilities increased by 53% over the 35 year period 1960-95, which equals 1.2% per year.1 A further 11% increase is projected for the 10 year period 1998-2008. These changes are the result of improved socioeconomic conditions, intensive neonatal care, and increasing survival. The health needs of people with intellectual disabilities have an impact on primary healthcare services and all secondary healthcare specialties.

People with intellectual disabilities experience health inequalities compared with the general population. Although their life expectancy is increasing, it remains much lower than for the rest of the population.2^–5 The standardised mortality ratio has been found to be 8.4 for people with severe intellectual disabilities in United States and 4.9 for people with intellectual disabilities of all levels in Australia.4 5 Additionally, people with intellectual disabilities have higher levels of health …