Kiwis with neurodevelopment conditions are more likely to die young

A new Otago University study has found people with conditions like autism and intellectual disabilities are nearly five times more likely to die before age 25 than other people.

Autistic researcher and co-author Joanne Dacombe says the main causes are medical issues, injuries and suicide.

She says it highlights some urgent needs.

Dacombe says it highlights the need for improved medical intervention, mental health, and crisis-support services.