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A new global study highlights autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as one of the leading causes of non-fatal health burdens in youth under 20. The research, part of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, reveals that an estimated 61.8 million people worldwide were living with autism in 2021—roughly one in every 127 individuals. The findings were published in The Lancet Psychiatry.
ASD ranks among the top ten contributors to non-fatal health burden for children and young adults, with marked disparities across regions and genders. The study shows that the global prevalence of autism is significantly higher in males, with 1,065 cases per 100,000 males compared to just 508 per 100,000 females.
Geographically, the highest prevalence was found in the High-Income Asia Pacific region, including Japan, where rates reached 1,560 cases per 100,000 people. Conversely, areas like Tropical Latin America and Bangladesh reported much lower prevalence. Despite these regional differences, the study emphasizes that autism is present globally, affecting individuals across all age groups. Furthermore, there has been a notable rise in disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) linked to autism, driven by population growth.
These findings call attention to the urgent need for early detection and ongoing support for autistic individuals and their caregivers worldwide. The study underscores the critical role of resources for early detection programs, particularly in low and middle-income countries where access to diagnostic tools and services is limited. It also stresses the importance of addressing the evolving needs of autistic individuals over their lifespan.
Researchers emphasize that improving diagnostic tools, caregiver support, and services tailored to the needs of the autism community are essential. Additionally, efforts should focus on providing geographic data coverage and targeting interventions for comorbidities and mortality risks, such as suicide, which have been identified as significant concerns for the autistic population.
The study provides a crucial foundation for shaping future policies aimed at improving the quality of life for millions of autistic individuals globally. Researchers hope these findings will lead to better-targeted interventions and a stronger global commitment to autism care.
For more information, read the full study in The Lancet Psychiatry (2024). [Link to study](www.thelancet.com/journals/lan … (24)00363-8/fulltext).
