Learning disabilities raise risk of early death

People with learning disabilities in Scotland are at significantly increased risk of premature death, according to a new study.

Research by the Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory based at the University of Glasgow found youngsters with learning disabilities are at least 12 times more likely than their peers to die in childhood.

Adults with learning disabilities are twice as likely to die from preventable illnesses, it also found.

Many of the deaths were from illnesses that could be treated and the researchers stressed this highlights an urgent need for action to reduce unnecessary deaths.

SLDO director Professor Craig Melville said: “These findings demonstrate that steps must be taken immediately to prevent unnecessary deaths of children and adults with learning disabilities.

“It is particularly shocking to find that people with learning disabilities are dying from causes that could be prevented or treated through training and guidance for carers and clinical staff and access to quality health and care services.

“We are working with the Scottish Government, third sector and health professionals to develop a response to these findings to tackle this inequality.”