Healthy behaviors and lifestyles in young adults with a history of developmental disabilities.
OBJECTIVE
Measure select Healthy People 2010 Leading Health Indicators in young adults with and without a history of developmental disabilities (DD) using a population-based cohort.


METHODS
Young adults were interviewed to assess the prevalence of seven Leading Health Indicators: physical activity, overweight and obesity, tobacco use, substance abuse, responsible sexual behavior, injury and violence, and access to healthcare.


RESULTS
Young adults with a history of DD were less likely to be involved in tobacco use, substance abuse and sexual activity. Areas of concern included below normal Body Mass Index, lack of HIV/AIDS and sex education, preventive healthcare services for women, and victimization.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite some healthy lifestyle indicators, health gaps may place young adults with a history of DD at risk for poor health and quality of life.
Rurangirwa
Jacqueline
J
Association of Schools of Public Health Fellow, USA. jrurangirwa@yahoo.com
Van Naarden Braun
Kim
K
Schendel
Diana
D
Yeargin-Allsopp
Marshalyn
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D015331:Cohort Studies; D019548:Crime Victims; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005845:Georgia; D015438:Health Behavior; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D012907:Smoking; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders