The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children in the United States has risen dramatically over the past two decades. In 2022, an estimated 32.2 out of every 1,000 8-year-old children were identified with ASD, marking a nearly fivefold increase from the rate of 6.7 per 1,000 children in 2000. This significant upward trend underscores the growing importance of understanding and addressing ASD in American society. Gender disparities in autism diagnosis The increase in ASD prevalence is not uniform across genders. From 2016 to 2019, male children were nearly four times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than their female counterparts. Approximately 4.8 percent of boys aged 3 to 17 years had received an ASD diagnosis at some point in their lives, compared to only 1.3 percent of girls in the same age group. This substantial gender gap highlights the need for further research into potential biological and social factors influencing ASD diagnosis rates. Racial and ethnic variations in autism prevalence Autism prevalence also varies across racial and ethnic groups. Data from 2016 to 2019 show that non-Hispanic white children aged 3 to 17 years had an ASD prevalence of 2.9 percent, while around 3.5 percent of Hispanic children had ASD. While this statistic provides insight, it is essential to consider potential disparities in diagnosis and access to services among different racial and ethnic communities. Further research and targeted interventions may be necessary to ensure equitable identification and support for children with ASD across all populations.
This data table provides a collection of information from peer-reviewed autism prevalence studies. Information reported from each study includes the autism prevalence estimate and additional study characteristics (e.g., case ascertainment and criteria). A PubMed search was conducted to identify studies published at any time through September 2020 using the search terms: autism (title/abstract) OR autistic (title/abstract) AND prevalence (title/abstract). Data were abstracted and included if the study fulfilled the following criteria:
• The study was published in English;
• The study produced at least one autism prevalence estimate; and
• The study was population-based (any age range) within a defined geographic area.
This statistic displays the prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorders in Italy from 2010 to 2017. According to data, the rate slightly decreased over the period of consideration. As of 2017, among the Italian population about *** out of 100,000 individuals suffered from some autism spectrum disorder.
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The global Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) market, valued at $7.78 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Increased awareness and early diagnosis of ASD are leading to higher treatment rates. Advances in therapeutic interventions, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, offer improved outcomes for individuals with ASD and their families. Furthermore, the growing prevalence of ASD globally, coupled with increased investment in research and development of new treatments, fuels market growth. The market is segmented by therapy type (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) and age group (pediatric and adult), reflecting the diverse needs of the ASD population. Pharmacological therapies currently hold a larger market share, due to the established efficacy of certain medications in managing ASD-related symptoms. However, the non-pharmacological segment is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising interest in behavioral therapies and other holistic approaches. The adult segment shows increasing demand as individuals with ASD live longer and require continued support. Regionally, North America and Europe currently dominate the market due to established healthcare infrastructure, higher awareness, and greater access to specialized services. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, fueled by rising disposable incomes, improved healthcare access, and increasing diagnostic capabilities. Competitive pressures within the market are intense, with leading companies focusing on developing innovative therapies, expanding their geographical reach, and strengthening their market positioning through strategic collaborations and acquisitions. Challenges remain, including the high cost of treatments, accessibility issues in certain regions, and the need for more effective treatments for specific ASD-related symptoms. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the ASD market remains positive, driven by sustained investment in research, growing awareness, and an increasing focus on improving the lives of individuals with ASD.
This statistic shows the prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorders in Italy in 2017, by age group. According to the estimates, in the age group including kids aged five to nine roughly 637 children out of 100,000 population, were suffering from autism spectrum disorders.
Input datasets on Ohio Birth and Autism will not be made accessible to the public due to the fact that they include individual-level data with PII. Output data are all available in tabulated form within the published manuscript. This dataset is not publicly accessible because: EPA cannot release personally identifiable information regarding living individuals, according to the Privacy Act and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This dataset contains information about human research subjects. Because there is potential to identify individual participants and disclose personal information, either alone or in combination with other datasets, individual level data are not appropriate to post for public access. Restricted access may be granted to authorized persons by contacting the party listed. It can be accessed through the following means: Input data can be obtained from Applications from owners of the data (Children's Hospital and Ohio Department of Health). The tabulated output data is found in the manuscript. Format: Input datasets on Ohio Birth and Autism will not be made accessible to the public due to the fact that they include individual-level data with PII. Output data are all available in tabulated form within the published manuscript (e.g., results of regression models, measures of central tendency, population characteristics, etc.). This dataset is associated with the following publication: Kaufman, J., M. Wright, G. Rice, N. Connolly, K. Bowers, and J. Anixt. AMBIENT OZONE AND FINE PARTICULATE MATTER EXPOSURES AND AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN METROPOLITAN CINCINNATI, OHIO. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH. Elsevier B.V., Amsterdam, NETHERLANDS, 171: 218-227, (2019).
Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapeutics Market Size 2025-2029
The autism spectrum disorder therapeutics market size is forecast to increase by USD 825.9 million at a CAGR of 6.9% between 2024 and 2029.
The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) therapeutics market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of ASD, with an estimated 1 in 54 children diagnosed with the disorder in the United States alone. This trend is driven by heightened awareness, improved diagnostic tools, and expanding healthcare coverage. Another key driver is the growing interest in personalized medicine for ASD treatment, as researchers explore the potential of precision therapies tailored to individual patients' unique genetic and environmental factors. This market is driven by the growing awareness and early diagnosis of ASD, fueled by increasing public education and advancements in genetic research and genetic testing.
Additionally, the complex nature of ASD and its diverse symptoms necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, adding to the development challenges and costs. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these regulatory hurdles and collaborate with various stakeholders to develop effective, personalized treatment solutions for the ASD population. However, the market faces several challenges. However, the market is also subject to stringent regulations, ensuring the safety and efficacy of therapeutic interventions and medical technologies.
What will be the Size of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapeutics Market during the forecast period?
Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) therapeutics market encompasses a range of interventions addressing the neurological underpinnings and diverse manifestations of this complex condition. Cognitive impairment, executive function deficits, emotional regulation skills, and sensory processing disorders are common challenges for individuals with ASD. Sleep hygiene practices and mental health services are essential components of holistic care, with growing emphasis on community integration and supported employment. Pharmacological treatments, including those targeting anxiety reduction and depression management, are used in conjunction with behavioral interventions such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy methods and communication intervention. Genetic screening and diagnostic tools are crucial for early childhood intervention, while teacher training and inclusionary educational practices foster a more comprehensive understanding of ASD subtypes.
Neuronal circuit dysfunction and immune system involvement are areas of ongoing research, with brain imaging techniques providing valuable insights into the condition's neurological basis. Self-harm prevention strategies and adaptive behavior skills training are essential for promoting independence and improving quality of life. CBT for autism and vocational rehabilitation programs further enhance the overall therapeutic landscape. Autism prevalence rates continue to rise, necessitating a multifaceted, evidence-based approach to addressing the diverse needs of this population. Antipsychotic drugs, including bipolar disorder therapeutics, are commonly prescribed for managing aggressive behaviors, mood stabilization, and anxiety in ASD patients.
How is this Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapeutics Industry segmented?
The autism spectrum disorder therapeutics industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.
Distribution Channel
Retail pharmacy
Hospital pharmacy
Online pharmacy
Type
Stimulants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
Antipsychotic drugs
Sleep medications
Others
Application
Autistic disorder
Asperger syndrome
Pervasive developmental disorder
Others
Geography
North America
US
Canada
Europe
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
UK
APAC
China
India
Japan
Rest of World (ROW)
By Distribution Channel Insights
The Retail pharmacy segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The autism spectrum disorder (ASD) therapeutics market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing awareness and advancements in novel treatment approaches. Cognitive behavioral therapy, occupational therapy interventions, and neurobiological mechanisms form the foundation of many interventions, addressing social skills training, communication deficits, sensory integration, and emotional regulation. Family therapy approaches and educational support services are essential
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This report presents a new estimate of the prevalence of autism among adults aged 18 years and over. This was derived using data from the 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS 2007) in combination with data from a new study of the prevalence of autism among adults with learning disabilities, who are a key group to study because they could not take part in the APMS 2007 and have been found to have an increased risk of autism.
The study was based on adults with learning disabilities living in private households and communal care establishments in Leicestershire, Lambeth and Sheffield. Whilst the study comprised a relatively small sample with limited geographical coverage and did not include the institutional population, it did include two non-mutually exclusive populations (people in communal care establishments and people with learning disabilities) which were not covered by the APMS 2007.
The study demonstrates that autism is common among people with a learning disability and, in taking these into account, at 1.1 per cent nationally is slightly higher than the previous estimate of 1.0 per cent in the APMS 2007. Sensitivity analysis showed that the estimates for national prevalence produced by this study were relatively insensitive to inaccuracies caused by the limitations.
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Introduction: This chapter presents the analysis of physician-diagnosed International Classification of Diseases (ICD version 9) disorders and diseases associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a 16-year pediatric cohort.Materials and Methods: The sample (n = 47,180; 62% male) consisted of children in the Alberta Health Services Calgary Health Region catchment under the age of 3 years, who received any physician-assigned ICD 9 diagnosis before the age of three between April 1993 and December 31, 1994. There were 111 females and 609 males with ASD diagnosed at any time between 1993 and 2010. The results detail the 16-year odds ratio (OR) associations of ASD diagnosis within the major classes of international classification of diseases (ICD 9) stratified by age and sex in the cohort. Further, for those suffering from ASD and any other disorder or disease, the analysis presents by sex, age, and duration, the proportions of all index physician-assigned ICD diagnoses, arising significantly before and after the index ASD diagnosis.Results: The rate of treated ASD in the cohort was 1 in 65 and the 16-year population rate of ASD was 62 per 10,000. For males with an ASD over the 16 year period, the ORs were significantly greater than the value one for 15 of the 17 main ICD classes and for 10 of the main ICD classes for females. Different age strata presented a more specific account of the main ICD class OR profiles. More specifically, 28 ICD disorders significantly preceded and 95 ICD disorders significantly followed ASD for females. Thirty-eight ICD disorders significantly preceded and 234 ICD disorders significantly followed ASD for males.Conclusions: The results largely confirm past studies focusing on more constrained sets of ASD morbidity. The age-stratified ORs gauge the order of risk in time for the cohort. The proportions of specific ICD disorders arising before and after ASD may be useful in respect to informing basic ASD research and ASD clinical management. Limitations are discussed.
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This dataset is no longer updated as of April 2023.
Basic Metadata Note: Condition is a new addition to 2017. *Rates per 100,000 population. Age-adjusted rates per 100,000 2000 US standard population.
**Blank Cells: Rates not calculated for fewer than 5 events. Rates not calculated in cases where zip code is unknown.
***API: Asian/Pacific Islander. ***AIAN: American Indian/Alaska Native.
Prepared by: County of San Diego, Health & Human Services Agency, Public Health Services, Community Health Statistics Unit, 2019.
Code Source: ICD-9CM - AHRQ HCUP CCS v2015. ICD-10CM - AHRQ HCUP CCS v2018. ICD-10 Mortality - California Department of Public Health, Group Cause of Death Codes 2013; NHCS ICD-10 2e-v1 2017.
Data Guide, Dictionary, and Codebook: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/CHS/Community%20Profiles/Public%20Health%20Services%20Codebook_Data%20Guide_Metadata_10.2.19.xlsx
Background: Whilst cannabis is known to be toxic to brain function and brain development in many respects it is not known if its increasing availability is associated with the rising US autism rates, whether this contribution is sufficient to effect overall trends and if its effects persist after controlling for other major covariates.
Methods: Longitudinal epidemiological study using national autism census data from the US Department of Education Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) 1991-2011 and nationally representative drug exposure (cigarettes, alcohol, analgesic, and cocaine abuse, and cannabis use monthly, daily and in pregnancy) datasets from National Survey of Drug Use and Health and US Census (income and ethnicity) and CDC Wonder population and birth data. Geotemporospatial and causal inference analysis conducted in R.
Results: 266,950 autistic of a population of 40,119,464 eight year olds 1994-2011. At the national level after adjustment daily cannabis use was significantly related (β-estimate=4.37 (95%C.I. 4.06-4.68), P<2.2x10-16) as was cannabis exposure in the first trimester of pregnancy (β-estimate=0.12 (0.08-0.16), P=1.7x10-12). At the state level following adjustment cannabis use was significant (from β-estimate=8.41 (3.08-13.74), P=0.002); after adjustment for varying cannabis exposure by ethnicity and other covariates (from β-estimate=10.88 (5.97-15.79), P=1.4x10-5). Cannabigerol (from β-estimate=-13.77 (-19.41—8.13), P = 1.8x10-6) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (from β-estimate=1.96 (0.88-3.04), P=4x10-4) were also significant. Geospatial state-level modelling showed an exponential relationship between ASMR and both Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabigerol exposure; effect size calculations reflected this exponentiation. Exponential coefficients for the relationship between modelled ASMR and THC- and cannabigerol- exposure were 7.053 (6.39-7.71) and 185.334 (167.88-202.79; both P<2.0x10-7).
In inverse probability-weighted robust generalized linear models ethnic cannabis exposure (from β-estimate=3.64 (2.94-4.34), P=5.9x10-13) and cannabis independently (β-estimate=1.08 (0.63-1.54), P=2.9x10-5) were significant. High eValues in geospatial models indicated that uncontrolled confounding did not explain these findings. Therefore the demonstrated relationship satified the criteria of causal inference. Dichotomized legal status was geospatiotemporally linked with elevated ASMR.
Conclusions: Data show cannabis use is associated with ASMR, is powerful enough to affect overall trends, and persists after controlling for other major drug, socioeconomic, and ethnic-related covariates. Selected cannabinoids are exponentially associated with ASMR. The cannabis-autism relationship satisfies criteria of causal inference.
This annual report aims to show the prevalence rate of autism amongst the compulsory school age population. Analyses are provided by health and social care trust, gender, school year, special educational needs and multiple deprivation measure.
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The global market for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) treatment is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach $3.142 billion in 2025 and maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.5% from 2025 to 2033. This substantial expansion is driven by several factors. Increasing prevalence of ASD diagnoses globally, coupled with heightened awareness and improved diagnostic capabilities, fuels demand for effective therapies. Furthermore, advancements in research and development are leading to the introduction of innovative treatments, including behavioral therapies, medication, and assistive technologies. The market's growth is also influenced by supportive government initiatives and insurance coverage expansions that facilitate access to treatment for a wider population. The competitive landscape involves a diverse range of pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, including Curemark, LLC, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited, and Roche Holding AG, contributing to the market’s dynamism and ongoing innovation. The continued expansion of the ASD treatment market is expected to be influenced by evolving treatment paradigms, focusing on early intervention and personalized care approaches. Growing research into the underlying neurological mechanisms of ASD is paving the way for more targeted therapies. While challenges remain, such as variations in treatment access across different geographical regions and the high cost of certain therapies, the overall market outlook remains positive. The ongoing development of new drugs and therapies targeting specific ASD symptoms and the increasing adoption of digital health solutions for monitoring and managing ASD will further accelerate market expansion over the forecast period. The market’s segmentation is likely to further evolve, with specialized treatment options emerging for specific subgroups within the ASD spectrum.
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ID, intellectual disability; ASD, autism spectrum disorder; Mild ID, Mild or moderate intellectual disability; Severe ID, Severe or profound intellectual disability; Down, Down syndrome.Demographic and psychiatric characteristics of the study population by number and percentage of maternal group.
This statistic is based on a survey by Ipsos MORI and shows the percentage of respondents in select countries worldwide who believed some vaccines cause autism in healthy children as of 2017. It was found that around 44 percent of respondents in India believed vaccines can cause autism, despite this claim being widely discredited.
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The U.S. ADHD and Autism Clinics Market is projected to reach USD 70.57 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.56% during the forecast period (2025-2033). The increasing prevalence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), rising awareness, and expanding insurance coverage drive the market growth. Furthermore, technological advancements, such as telehealth services, and the availability of specialized therapies contribute to market expansion. The market is segmented by condition (ADHD, ASD), service (consultation and testing, treatment and therapy, medication management, family/caregiver counseling), and region (Northeast, Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, West). The ADHD segment holds a larger market share due to the higher prevalence of the disorder. The consultation and testing service segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR, driven by the increasing demand for early diagnosis and intervention. The Northeast and Southeast regions account for a significant market share due to the presence of a large population base and well-established healthcare infrastructure. The U.S. ADHD and Autism Clinics Market is a rapidly growing market, driven by the increasing prevalence of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The market is expected to reach $43.5 billion by 2026, up from $35.4 billion in 2021. Recent developments include: In February 2024, Unlocked Potential, a new clinic in Fairmont, West Virginia, was commenced to provide early treatment for ADHD and autism in children. The facility aims to offer comprehensive services, including behavioral therapy and assessments, to support young patients and their families. , In April 2024, Children’s Mercy Kansas City launched the Autism and Neurodevelopment Continuity Clinic (ANDCC), a pilot program aimed at supporting families of children aged three and younger who have recently received an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis. The program offers autism-specific guidance, helps families navigate therapies and community resources, and provides emotional support through regular check-ins. , In April 2024, ABS Kids opened a new ABA center in Provo, Utah, marking its 12th location in the state, with services starting on May 6. The center will provide autism diagnosis and ABA therapy, expanding the company's reach to more families needing high-quality care. .
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The global market for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) treatment and management is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach $11.61 billion in 2025. While the provided CAGR is missing, a reasonable estimation, considering the rising prevalence of ASD and increasing investment in research and development of therapeutic interventions, would place the CAGR between 7% and 10% for the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key drivers. Increased awareness and earlier diagnosis of ASD are leading to greater demand for therapeutic services, including behavioral therapies, educational interventions, and medication. Furthermore, advancements in research are leading to the development of more effective treatments and improved diagnostic tools. The market is segmented by type of ASD (Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Others) and by patient population (Children and Teenagers, Adults), reflecting the diverse needs across the spectrum. Geographic distribution shows significant market presence in North America and Europe, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure and higher awareness levels. However, emerging markets in Asia Pacific and the Middle East & Africa are poised for substantial growth as diagnostic capabilities and access to treatment improve. Challenges include high treatment costs, limited access to specialized care in certain regions, and the variability in the effectiveness of treatments across individuals. The continued expansion of the ASD market depends on several factors. Sustained investment in research and development will be crucial for discovering innovative therapies and improving treatment outcomes. Government initiatives and healthcare policies promoting early intervention and accessible treatment options will play a significant role in driving market growth. Furthermore, collaborative efforts between researchers, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups are vital to address the unmet needs of individuals with ASD and their families. The substantial market size and projected growth highlight a significant opportunity for pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and technology developers to contribute to improving the lives of individuals affected by ASD.
BackgroundThe Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) call for systematic monitoring to optimize child development outcomes. As a developmental disorder affecting children and adults, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) not only impacts individual social functioning but also places a burden on families and society. A detailed analysis of the latest global burden data on ASD can assist stakeholders in formulating support policies and interventions, thereby helping to meet the health needs of ASD.MethodsWe used data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 (GBD 2021), compiled by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). Data were obtained through the Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) and covered 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019. Variables included ASD-related prevalence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), age-standardized rates, and the sociodemographic index (SDI).ResultsExposure to autism spectrum disorders contributed to 61823540 prevalence and 11544038 DALYs globally in 2021. Males and younger adults were high-risk populations. Higher socio-demographic index (SDI) regions were high-risk areas. The disease burden varied considerably across the GBD regions and the countries. From 1990 to 2021, the number of cases increased. The predicted results showed that the disease burden for both genders would still increase from 2022 to 2046. Countries or regions with a higher SDI have greater burden improvement potential.ConclusionThe global burden of ASD has shown a continuous upward trend, with some differences observed across gender, age groups, and SDI regions. In terms of gender, the burden of ASD among females may be underestimated. Regarding age groups, the aging process has highlighted the urgent need to address ASD in the elderly population. High-SDI regions should place greater emphasis on improving diagnostic methods and implementing precise interventions, while middle- and low-SDI regions should focus on raising public awareness and enhancing screening capabilities.
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The global Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Diagnostics market is projected to reach a valuation of USD X million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of XX% over the forecast period 2025-2033. Rising prevalence of ASD, increasing awareness of the disorder, and technological advancements in diagnostic tools are driving the market growth. Additionally, government initiatives and support for early detection and diagnosis of ASD are further boosting the market. However, the high cost of genetic testing and the lack of skilled healthcare professionals in certain regions may pose challenges to the market's growth. The market is segmented based on application, type, and region. By application, the market is divided into early diagnosis and screening, genetic testing, and neuroimaging. By type, the market is classified into genetic tests (karyotyping, chromosomal microarray, single-gene sequencing), neuroimaging tests (MRI, EEG, PET), and behavioral assessments. Regionally, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America currently holds a significant market share due to the high prevalence of ASD and advanced healthcare infrastructure. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to increasing awareness, government initiatives, and a growing population.
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Psychiatric comorbidity in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a subject of critical scientific importance, affecting the quality of life, prognosis, and functional outcomes. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders vary considerably according to variables such as index subject characteristics, study setting, sampling frame, diagnostic methods used, as well as country of geographic origin. To date, most studies comprise clinical or treatment referral samples in tertiary care or subjects enrolled in clinical trials and genetic cohort collections. Such samples carry the potential for overestimation of both the frequency and severity of psychiatric comorbidity. A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed and Web of Science databases restricted to population-based study publications in the English between May 1, 2015, and May 31, 2020. A comprehensive keyword list was generated to investigate co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents with ASD. A wide range of DSM-5 based disorders such as anxiety, mood, ADHD, intellectual disability/intellectual developmental disorder, eating/feeding, gender dysphoria and sleep-wake disorders were assessed. Initial search revealed a total of 1674 articles after removal of duplicates. Two independent researchers conducted a parallel-blinded screening process to identify the eligible studies based on titles and abstracts; 39 studies were analyzed in the current review. The main findings show prevalence estimates of 22.9% (95% CI: 17.7- 29.2) for intellectual disability; 26.2% (22-31) for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder; 11.1% (8.6-14.1) for anxiety disorders; 19.7% (11.9-30.7) for sleep disorders; 7% (5.2- 9.3) for disruptive disorders; 2% (1.3- 3.1) for bipolar disorders; 2.7% (1.8- 4.2) for depression; 1.8% (0.4–8.7) for obsessive-compulsive disorder; and 0.6% (0.3–1.1) for psychosis. Psychiatric comorbidity in population-based studies is lower than in clinical and referred samples. However, our results also indicate that the frequency of psychiatric comorbidity in children and adolescents with ASD in the population context is considerable, without the influence of referral bias implicit in clinical and treatment samples. There is a need for better targeted diagnostic tools to detect psychiatric comorbidity in children and youth in future population-based studies, as an essential component in providing care as well as new insights into the nature and mechanisms of its underlying associations.Systematic Review Registration[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/], identifier [CRD42021234464].
The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children in the United States has risen dramatically over the past two decades. In 2022, an estimated 32.2 out of every 1,000 8-year-old children were identified with ASD, marking a nearly fivefold increase from the rate of 6.7 per 1,000 children in 2000. This significant upward trend underscores the growing importance of understanding and addressing ASD in American society. Gender disparities in autism diagnosis The increase in ASD prevalence is not uniform across genders. From 2016 to 2019, male children were nearly four times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than their female counterparts. Approximately 4.8 percent of boys aged 3 to 17 years had received an ASD diagnosis at some point in their lives, compared to only 1.3 percent of girls in the same age group. This substantial gender gap highlights the need for further research into potential biological and social factors influencing ASD diagnosis rates. Racial and ethnic variations in autism prevalence Autism prevalence also varies across racial and ethnic groups. Data from 2016 to 2019 show that non-Hispanic white children aged 3 to 17 years had an ASD prevalence of 2.9 percent, while around 3.5 percent of Hispanic children had ASD. While this statistic provides insight, it is essential to consider potential disparities in diagnosis and access to services among different racial and ethnic communities. Further research and targeted interventions may be necessary to ensure equitable identification and support for children with ASD across all populations.