People with learning disabilities who develop type 2 diabetes face a greater risk of dying from the condition, despite often showing better blood sugar control than others. A large-scale study published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care found that although rates of vascular complications were similar, those with learning disabilities were 20% more likely to experience faster disease progression and require insulin therapy sooner. They were also more likely to already be on treatment for diabetes or high blood pressure and to present with complications at the time of diagnosis.
Researchers examined anonymised health records of more than 280,000 adults newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the UK between 2004 and 2021. Of these, just over 2,000 had a learning disability. This group was typically younger at diagnosis – average age 51 compared with 64 – and included higher numbers of men, people with severe obesity, White ethnic backgrounds, and individuals living in areas of deprivation.
The study’s authors stressed that managing type 2 diabetes can be especially difficult for people with learning disabilities, as it requires consistent monitoring and self-management. They suggested that more tailored support and adjustments from healthcare professionals could improve outcomes, including longer consultations and clearer communication.
Previous research has highlighted barriers to care, such as a lack of diabetes knowledge among caregivers and insufficient accessible information. The authors recommend better training for both staff and carers, and greater efforts to ensure individuals with learning disabilities are supported to take an active role in managing their condition.
