Exploring Health Issues of Adolescents With Intellectual Disabilities: A Qualitative Study
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Abstract
Introduction: Adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) experience a variety of health issues that are occasionally misdiagnosed and untreated. The aim of this qualitative research was to explore the health issues of adolescents with ID. Materials and methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 26 participants, including 12 caregivers, 10 primary healthcare providers, and four experts in the management of ID in Kelantan who were selected using purposive sampling. The interviews were transcribed and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The study found various health concerns across five themes; 1) medical conditions related to acute and chronic medical conditions, mental health problems, injuries or traumas, and oral health issues, 2) developmental disabilities pertaining to cognitive limitations, communication difficulties, lack of social skill, poor self-control and challenge in managing personal care, 3) high-risk behaviours such as vulnerability towards bullying and engaging in high-risk activities such as pornography or smoking, 4) nutrition issues comprising overnutrition, undernutrition, abnormal and unhealthy eating behaviours, and 5) sexual and reproductive health issues related to sexual violence, inappropriate sexual behaviours and sexual implications. Conclusion: This study highlights worrying health issues among adolescents with ID which may lead to various challenges faced by caregivers and healthcare providers in the provision of care and services to this vulnerable population. Targeting these health issues may assist in achieving the unmet healthcare needs and subsequently improve the quality of life of adolescents with ID and their caregivers.
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