Abstract: ObjectiveTo explore the number, incidence, structure and regional distribution of intellectual disabilities, causes of disability, and needs, etc. in Shanxi province.Methods75,016 people from 88 towns and streets of 22 cities and districts were investigated by a multi-stage sampling method in accordance with established procedures forms composed by trained investigators.ResultsThe incidence of intellectual disability was 0.34% most of which were with grade three and four in Shanxi Province. The incidence was the highest in youth in men while highest in childhood in women. The number of grades one and two of youth was more than that of other people. Incidence of intellectual disability in rural areas was significantly higher than in urban (P＜0.001). The major causes of disability were brain diseases, unknown cause, genetic, seizure disorder and other trauma. Only 43.8% of the disabled received a little services and support, including medical services and relief, poverty relief and services, rehabilitation training and services. Different people had different needs of major rehabilitation.ConclusionThe situation of intellectual disabilities was hopeful in Shanxi province. There was no discrimination of gender. Expanding groups with receiving service and support, providing targeted prevention measures according to needs of different groups and strengthening rural governance residual disability were the focus for future work.

Key words: intellectual disability, sample survey, rehabilitation needs