New research reveals that over 60 million people worldwide were living with autism in 2021, making it one of the top ten causes of non-fatal health burden for those under 20. This equates to an estimated one in 127 people globally being autistic, a significant increase from the one in 271 reported in 2019. The findings, published in The Lancet, are based on data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.
The study highlights a notable gender disparity, with autism prevalence among males (1,065 cases per 100,000) nearly double that of females (508 per 100,000). High-Income Asia Pacific regions, including Japan, reported the highest prevalence globally (1,560 per 100,000), while Tropical Latin America and Bangladesh recorded the lowest. Autism affects individuals across all ages worldwide, with disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) increasing due to population growth.
Researchers stress the urgent need for early diagnosis and sustained support for autistic individuals and their families. Enhanced data collection, alongside targeted interventions for associated risks like suicide, are essential for improving outcomes. These measures would help inform policies aimed at improving the quality of life for autistic people globally.
The authors emphasise that while early intervention is vital, addressing the evolving needs of autistic individuals throughout their lives, particularly under-represented adults, is equally important. The study was funded by Queensland Health and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
