Recent epidemiological studies of mental retardation were critically reviewed, and data on prevalence, associated disorders, and etiology examined. Results indicated that there was a prevalence for both severe and mild retardation of 3 to 4 per 1000, that a wide range of disorders were associated with mental retardation, and that etiology is often…

Presents epidemiological data for levels and trends in suicide among elderly, focusing on U.S. figures. Details age, sex, race, marital status, and methods of suicide as factors in suicide among the old. Discusses past trends and future predictions of changes in elderly suicide rates. Notes data and literatures on parasuicides and survivors of…

Overall cancer incidence among southwestern American Indians is less than half that of U.S. whites; Alaska Native and white rates are similar. However, both native groups have elevated rates for specific cancers (stomach, liver, and gallbladder), and Indians have low five-year survival rates. Data tables outline incidence, mortality, and survival…

Reports that by the end of 1987, nearly 50,000 cases of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) had been reported in the United States since 1981, with 20,745 in 1987 alone. Discusses the disordinate proportion of cases involving black and Hispanic adults and children. (TW)