Spina bifida adults.

Questionnaire data were obtained from 137 spina bifida adults aged 18-25 years and additional more sensitive information was obtained by interviewing 35 of them. Although 52% had attended college, many found the courses of little relevance to finding employment. 45% had been employed at some time, but only 23% were presently employed. Employability was significantly related to degree of handicap, and job retention was significantly higher in males. 14% lived away from home, but many more wished to do so. Only 3% were married and 24% had a boyfriend / girlfriend . The most common health problems were of the urinary tract (38%) and pressure sores (26%).