Sexual knowledge and behaviour in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a complex care condition. Issue 4 (21st July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Palmer, Lisa D.; Heung, Tracy; Corral, Maria; Boot, Erik; Brooks, Stephanie G.; Bassett, Anne S.
• Other Names: McCarthy Michelle guestEditor.; Frawlie Patsie guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities. Volume 35:Issue 4(2022)
• Page Start: 966
• Page End: 975
• Publication Date: 2021-07-21
• Subjects: gender -- genetics -- learning disabilities -- pregnancy -- sex -- sexually transmitted infections; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; Learning disabled -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.85880072
• DOI: 10.1111/jar.12927
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-2322

Abstract

Abstract: Background: There is limited information about sexual knowledge and behaviours in adults with complex care needs, including those with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q) which represents a group predisposed to intellectual disabilities. Methods: We conducted sexual health assessments with 67 adults with 22q, examining whether those with knowledge deficits and a history of engaging in sexual activities with others would be more likely to engage in high‐risk behaviours. Results: The majority (65.7%) of adults with 22q were sexually active with others; most (70.1%) had sexual knowledge deficits. Those with intellectual disabilities were more likely ( p = .0012) to have deficits in certain topics. In the sexually active subgroup, most (81.8%) engaged in high‐risk sexual behaviours, regardless of intellectual disability or knowledge deficits. Conclusion: The results suggest a need for increased dialogue, repeated education, genetic counselling and preventive healthcare measures related to sexuality in 22q and potentially in other complex care conditions.