Which statement about IDD health disparities is true?

• A. 2X more likely to die prematurely, 14% higher rates of obesity
• B. No difference in health outcomes
• C. IDD individuals have lower obesity rates
• D. Health outcomes are better than the general population

Answer: (A)

Health disparities among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities show up most clearly in mortality and obesity. Evidence indicates they are about twice as likely to die prematurely as their peers, and obesity rates are higher by roughly 14%. These gaps come from a mix of factors: barriers to accessing preventive and primary care, communication challenges that impede accurate diagnosis and ongoing management, diagnostic overshadowing where symptoms are attributed to IDD rather than a treatable condition, fewer opportunities for physical activity, and medications that can lead to weight gain. Because of these risks, chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease can develop or worsen, contributing to the higher mortality. The other statements overlook or contradict this substantial body of evidence, which is why the statement about higher premature death and higher obesity aligns with what we know about IDD health disparities.