Prevalence and health implications of being underweight

The prevalence of being underweight is higher in people with developmental disability than in the general population. Children with disability, people with severe disability, and those living in supported accommodation are especially vulnerable to being underweight. Any person who is chronically underweight should be thoroughly assessed for a cause.

Failure to meet growth expectations (‘failure to thrive’) may occur in children with developmental disability—refer the child to a paediatrician.

The consequences of being chronically underweight may include:

• compromised immunity, with increased susceptibility to infections
• reduced respiratory muscle function
• decreased energy, reduced participation in education, work and social activities
• impaired learning
• reduced quality of life.

These consequences can be exacerbated by physical disability (eg limited mobility) or pre-existing chronic health conditions.