Cancer in individuals with intellectual disability is an under-researched area. This conference aims to enhance awareness and stimulate discussions on this important topic, addressing the disproportionate impact on individuals with intellectual disability who typically experience poorer outcomes and premature mortality compared to the general population when diagnosed with cancer.
Historically, there was a belief that cancer was less common in this population. However, recent studies suggest that people with intellectual disability are more susceptible to developing specific cancer types, often diagnosed at more advanced stages, significantly reducing survival chances. This means people with intellectual disability have less chance to survive if they are diagnosed with cancer. This is unjust and unfair and underlines the urgent need for increased awareness, early detection, and improved interventions for this underserved population.
The proposed conference is the first conference of its kind to take place in Ireland designed to bring together people with intellectual disability, and experts spanning various advocacy and health disciplines to discuss important topics such as cancer surveillance, early detection, health interventions, treatment support, and survivorship. The objective is to raise awareness of the issues people with intellectual disability experience and create opportunities to improve cancer care for this population. Importantly, the conference is not just directed at experts but extends its reach to people with intellectual disabilities, their families and carers. The conference aims to create a platform for knowledge exchange, advocacy, and collaborative efforts to drive positive change.
All information from this conference will be made publicly available in an accessible format with presentations from keynote speakers uploaded online following the event. The event will be publicised via social media i.e., X (formerly Twitter) before and after the event highlighting key outcomes of the event and spreading the word amongst key stakeholders and member networks.