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Health Inequalities

Sharpe et al in 2019, in the context of addressing health inequalities in general practice, said that autistic people are often "hidden" from existing health and social care services. This is important because autistic people, with or without a learning disability, are at higher risk of experiencing physical and mental health issues.

Around 30% of autistic adults have comorbid learning disability, physical, and mental health conditions. While those with a comorbid learning disability are more susceptible to physical health issues, those without a learning disability are at higher risk of mental health problems.

Autistic adults without a learning disability die 12 years earlier when compared to the general population so it is important that those working in health and social care are aware of these hidden vulnerabilities

Sadly, research shows that autistic people are at greater risk of suicide when compared with the general population, particularly autistic females and autistic people without a learning disability; with suicide being among the top 3 causes of premature mortality for the latter [4].