Lower IQ Increases Disease Risk

A low score on an intelligence test in adolescence may be associated with an increased risk of physical and mental illnesses later in life. This is suggested by a comprehensive meta-analysis by researchers from the University of Vienna, published in the journal Nature Communications Psychology.

Data from Almost Three Million People Analyzed

The research group led by Jakob Pietschnig and Jonathan Fries analyzed 49 studies with data from around 2.9 million people from eight countries, including the United Kingdom, the USA, and several Scandinavian countries. The aim was to investigate a possible connection between the intelligence quotient (IQ) in adolescence and later diseases such as schizophrenia, depression, dementia, or diabetes.

Accordingly, the risk for such diseases later in life is on average 22 percent higher if the IQ score is 15 points below average. This connection was particularly strong in mental illnesses.

Health Systems and Education Mitigate Risk

However, the analysis also suggests that good healthcare can partially compensate for the negative effect. Similarly, the risk decreases when people with similar educational levels are compared. From this, the study authors conclude that social and structural factors – such as access to education and medical care – have a decisive influence on long-term health.

"The negative health effects of lower intelligence cannot be completely prevented, but they can be mitigated," according to the research team. Therefore, early childhood education and the promotion of health knowledge in young years play a central role.

Recognizing Intelligence as a Risk Factor

The study authors advocate recognizing lower cognitive abilities as an independent risk factor for diseases. They also see their results as an argument for low-threshold access to medical services and for investments in education – especially for socially disadvantaged groups.

(APA/Red)

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