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Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) show an increased prevalence of dementia diagnoses, according to a new study published on January 2 in JAMA Network Open. The research, led by Dr. Giacomo Vivanti from the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute at Drexel University in Philadelphia, reveals concerning findings about the intersection of autism and dementia in aging populations.
The study, which analyzed linked Medicare and Medicaid data, aimed to investigate the nationwide prevalence of dementia diagnoses in individuals with ASD. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, which split participants into two groups: one consisting of those diagnosed with ASD only (46,877 individuals) and another with ASD and intellectual disabilities (ID) (67,705 individuals).
The results revealed that dementia diagnoses were present in 8.03% of the ASD-only group and 8.88% of the ASD-plus-ID group. However, the prevalence significantly increased with age. Among individuals aged 65 and older, the dementia diagnosis rate was much higher, reaching 35.12% in the ASD-only group and 31.22% in the ASD-plus-ID group.
The researchers noted that certain factors influenced the likelihood of a dementia diagnosis. For instance, those with cardiovascular risk factors, depression, or other psychiatric conditions exhibited higher odds of being diagnosed with dementia. Additionally, the study highlighted the need for targeted healthcare policies addressing the increasing ASD population, which is at risk for both autism and dementia-related issues.
“Our data emphasize the critical need for health policy efforts to address the growing ASD population that is either at risk for or already affected by dementia,” Dr. Vivanti and his colleagues wrote. They stressed that future research should focus on understanding the underlying factors contributing to the coexistence of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, such as biological mechanisms or barriers to accessing social and educational opportunities.
This study brings attention to the unique challenges faced by individuals with ASD as they age, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive healthcare planning to support their well-being throughout their lives. The findings may have significant implications for healthcare providers and policymakers seeking to improve services for this vulnerable population.
The full study can be accessed in JAMA Network Open with the DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.53691.
