Adults with learning disabilities are three times more likely than the general public to die from cancer, Glasgow researchers have revealed in “deeply concerning” findings.

The research team says the reasons may include later presentation and diagnosis as well as poorer treatment and compliance.

Led by the Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory in the University of Glasgow, the study found that adults with learning disabilities were more likely to have and to die from cancer which had spread to other parts of the body.

The study published in BMJ Open also revealed that women with learning disabilities had higher mortality rates from breast cancer, ovarian cancer and other female genital organ cancers.

Meanwhile, men with learning disabilities were more likely to die from colorectal cancer and cancers of unknown primary origin than men without learning disabilities.

People with learning disabilities already face significant health inequalities including a 20-year mortality gap and the Glasgow researchers say better engagement around early detection and screening is needed.

This comes as Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer emphasised the importance of realistic medicine that prioritises personalised care and shared decision-making in his latest report.

Professor Deborah Cairns, Director of the Scottish Learning Disabilities Observatory and Cancer Programme Lead, said:

“This is the first study in more than 20 years to report on the differences in cancer incidence and mortality between adults with learning disabilities and the general population.

“These startling findings highlight that people with learning disabilities continue to face significant health inequalities in all aspects of their lives including a higher proportion of avoidable cancer deaths.

“Many cancers are preventable and/or treatable and the more we raise awareness about early signs and symptoms, the more lives we are likely to save.”

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has launched an initiative to better support people with learning disabilities including advising them to reach out to their GP as uptake for screening appointments are “significantly lower”.

This comes after the Scottish government also announced that a programme to help GP teams reach patients ‘lost’ to the system will receive £1m to run for another year.

This study found that the most common cancer-related deaths for men and women were similar among those with and without learning disabilities, but that people living with learning disabilities are often treated too late.

Researchers outline a clear need to promote awareness of cancer symptoms among adults with learning disabilities, their carers and loved ones.

Lead researcher, the University of Glasgow’s Dr Laura Ward, said:

“These findings are deeply concerning.

“Adults with learning disabilities are missing out on lifesaving cancer treatment due to their cancer being found too late and we urgently need to find out why this is case.”

Susan Moug, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and Honorary Professor at the University of Glasgow, added:

“It’s so important that people with learning disabilities, their families and carers are supported to be aware of the signs and symptoms of cancer.

“Public health initiatives must consider the unique needs of people with learning disabilities, making screening more accessible and supporting earlier help-seeking for potential cancer symptoms.”

Read more: Glasgow project makes research accessible to all; Cancer patient support bolstered by new funding; UN told rights of disabled people in ‘crisis’; Rise in breast cancer screening uptake; Cancer workforce “not going in right trajectory” 

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