Global study highlights autism as growing health burden for youth

A global analysis has revealed that 61.8 million people worldwide were autistic in 2021, equating to one in 127 individuals. The study, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, identifies autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as one of the top ten causes of non-fatal health burden for youth under 20.

The findings, part of the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2021, show significant disparities in ASD prevalence. Males are nearly twice as likely to be autistic as females, with rates of 1,065 per 100,000 males compared to 508 per 100,000 females.

High-income regions like Japan recorded the highest prevalence, while Tropical Latin America and Bangladesh reported the lowest. Researchers stress the need for early detection, improved diagnostic tools, and tailored support, particularly in underserved areas.