Intellectual developmental disability and all-cause and cause-specific mortality among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Aims: Individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD) face unique challenges in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but evidence on their impact on mortality is limited. This study assessed the association between IDD and mortality in T2DM using nationwide Korean data. Methods: A retrospective cohort of 2,522,244 individuals with T2DM who underwent health screenings through the Korea National Health Insurance Service 2015-2016 was analyzed. IDD presence and severity were evaluated, and mortality risks were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. Results: Among a total population, 0.22 % (n = 5,627) had IDD. Over a six-year median follow-up, 201,153 deaths (7.98 %) occurred. Individuals with IDD had significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 3.40, 95 % CI: 3.14-3.68), with greater severity correlating with higher risk (P < 0.001). Cause-specific mortality risks were significantly elevated for cardiovascular (HR 3.77, 95 % CI: 3.12-4.55), cancer (HR 1.52, 95 % CI: 1.24-1.86), and respiratory diseases (HR 7.71, 95 % CI: 6.27-9.48). Younger individuals showed stronger associations. Conclusions: Individuals with T2DM and IDD, particularly those with severe IDD, have a significantly higher mortality risk. Tailored healthcare strategies and enhanced social support are urgently required to reduce disparities in this vulnerable population.