Prevalence and Risk Factors of Autism in the United States, (2024), Nwajiugo R., Zheng S., Aderinwale O., et al.

(https://dc.etsu.edu/asrf/2024/schedule/124/)

Abstract
Background: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by enduring
difficulties in behavior, cognition, and social communication. Its prevalence varies
worldwide, with males being diagnosed more frequently than females. The impact of
autism extends beyond the individual, affecting family dynamics, educational
systems, and public perceptions. In the United States of America, 2.8% of children
aged 3-8 years have autism, with fourfold higher incidence among males. Factors
such as race, sex, and extreme prematurity have been associated with autism. Given
that over 54% of children with autism have intellectual disabilities, and the complex
inheritance pattern of the disease, exploring other determinants are crucial due to its
significant impacts on individuals, family, and society. Methods: This analysis used
the National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) 2022 data, including 54,103
children aged 0-17 years. Descriptive statistics was carried out, associated
determinants were established, and logistic regression was utilized to calculate odds
ratios (OR), with autism as the dependent variable, adjusting for various factors.
Results: The odds of autism among males were 3 times higher than in females.
Children living at 0-99% of federal poverty level had 59% higher odds of autism
compared to those at 400% or greater of federal poverty level. Children reporting fair
or poor health demonstrated 10 times odds of autism than those with excellent health.
Children with unmarried parents had 31% higher odds of autism than those with
married parents, while children of unemployed parents had 64% higher odds than
those with employed parents. Children with genetic or inherited conditions exhibited
5.38 odds of autism than those without such conditions. The odds of autism among
children with low birth weight were 68% higher than in children with normal birth
weight. Additionally, for every one event of adverse childhood experience, the odds
of autism increased by 26%. Conclusion: The observed higher incidence of autism in
males compared to females aligns with previous research findings. This study
highlights the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to address autism,
recognizing the interaction of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in its
development. Further research into the complex relationships between these
characteristics is needed. With this information, support groups, policymakers, and
healthcare professionals can collaboratively develop targeted intervention programs
aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of these risk factors and improving the lives of
individuals affected by autism.

Citation: Nwajiugo R., Zheng S., Aderinwale O., et al., 2024. Prevalence and Risk
Factors of Autism in the United States.Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State
University