Oncological treatment of patients with intellectual disability: too limited?

Genetic factors and lifestyle contribute to specific risks for developing cancer in people with intellectual disabilities. However, early detection and oncological care are less accessible to people with intellectual disabilities than to the general population, contributing to relatively more cancer-related deaths in this population. In order to optimally adapt oncological care to the characteristics and needs of people with intellectual disabilities, regular treatment may need to be adjusted sometimes. Yet, little is known about treatment adjustments in this setting. Scientific articles describing adaptations in oncological care for people with intellectual disabilities often provide no reasons as to why these changes were made. Adequately adapted oncological care for people with intellectual disabilities therefore mainly depends on affinity and experience of individual clinicians. Awareness for abnormal symptoms, genetic factors, and collaboration with other care providers, like the intellectual disability physician is advised.