CYP Now - Association of Race/Ethnicity and Social Disadvantage with Autism Prevalence

Autism spectrum disorder is characterised by communication difficulties and restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities. It is thought to affect between one and two per cent of the world's population. Researchers at the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with researchers from Newcastle University and Maastricht University, wanted to chart the prevalence of autism in different demographic groups to help with the planning of support services.

Research found pupils with autism were more likely to be from a disadvantaged background. Picture: Andrey Popov/Adobe Stock

Report: Association of Race/Ethnicity and Social Disadvantage with Autism Prevalence

Report authors: Andres Roman-Urrestarazu, Robin van Kessel, Carrie Allison, Fiona Matthews, Carol Brayne, Simon Baron-Cohen

Published by: JAMA Pediatrics, March 2021

SUMMARY

The researchers analysed data from 7,047,238 pupils aged five to 19 in state-funded schools using the Spring School Census 2017 from the National Pupil Database in England. A total of 119,821 pupils recorded as having autism were identified, of whom 21,660 also had learning difficulties. About 58 per cent of pupils with autism had an education, health and care plan (EHCP).

The research found 1.76 per cent of schoolchildren in England had autism. Previous research by the same group, using a school-based survey, suggested 1.57 per cent of children were autistic. The researchers say the increase is likely to be because autism has become better recognised by parents and schools.

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