Are there inequalities in weight problems between the adult population with intellectual disabilities and the general adult population?
This large scale population based prevalence study aimed to look at inequalities in weight problems between adults with Intellectual Disabilities and the general adult population. Using the Leicester Learning Disability Register information was gathered from all adults on the register about ethnicity, level of understanding, physical disabilities, epilepsy, relevant skills deficits, eating problems, other behavioural problems, autism, participation in sports, smoking status and medication. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated for each individual, and men and women were categorised separately as underweight, normal weight, or overweight and obese. The study population was relatively young, with 74% being under 50. Half the group had difficulty preparing simple foods independently. 25% had Down syndrome and almost half the sample were taking medication of some kind. With regards to range of weight – 18.6% of study population were underweight, 32.7% normal weight, 28% overweight, 20.7% ob
