MEDICS are to receive specialist help on aiding cancer patients with learning disabilities as charities aim to close a gap in life expectancy.
Macmillan Cancer Support and ENABLE Scotland have created a new programme aimed at boosting provision for patients with additional support needs.
Directed towards medics, it is hoped that the resource will improve outcomes for vulnerable patients.
Women with learning disabilities die 20 years earlier than the general population on average.
Life expectancy for men with such conditions is 13 years lower than those without.
According to the most recent Health Needs Assessment Report by NHS Scotland, people with learning disabilities experience difficulty in accessing health services.
Health conditions can remain undetected and untreated as a result and the mortality rates associated with treatable conditions, such as some cancers, are higher than average.
Theresa Shearer, chief executive of ENABLE Scotland, said: “Receiving a diagnosis can be extremely difficult and daunting for anyone, but for someone with a learning disability it can be even more distressing than for others.
“They may be informed of their diagnosis or consequent test results at a health appointment but may only fully understand what’s shared with them later on, when they’re in a different location, sometimes on their own and without the appropriate support.
“The launch of this resource marks an important milestone in ensuring access to equal healthcare for all.”
The publication follows a one-year study focused on people with learning disabilities and experience of cancer. Participant John Feehan, 45, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma 11 years ago. The Prestwick man said: “When I started feeling ill, I visited my GP several times, but no-one picked up on how serious my illness was.
“I was told I had Hodgkin’s lymphoma after I tried to go on holiday and the airline said I was too unwell to fly. It was a really anxious time. I was in hospital surrounded by people I didn’t know, worrying about things like my car and my cat. I was in shock when I was told I had cancer and it took a long time to process what it really meant.
“People who work in health and social care need to understand that some patients, like me, will need a bit of extra support during medical appointments and treatment.”
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