[Epidemiological aspects of mental retardation].

This paper covers a population from 0 up to 50 years old, considered as 'handicapped', at the A.P.A.E. in São Paulo, Brazil. Many differences in the characteristics of both social and family environment were analyzed, as well as diagnosis and etiologies regarding associated problems. An appraisal of the different influences on both social and individual factors was outlined so that strategies of attendance could be modified accordingly.