Mortality of autistic individuals

There is some correlation between autism and reduced life expectancy, but study results are inconclusive as to whether autism and comorbidities are linked or whether individuals were unable to acquire proper and timely care options as in the neurotypical population. Furthermore, studies are limited to primarily having information about higher-needs populations.

Autistic individuals were once reported to have a significantly reduced life expectancy, on average approximately seventeen years shorter than that of the general population; however, this is no longer accepted in the scientific community as a blanket characteristic of autism due to problems and misrepresentation of the study conclusions. Mortality rates during childhood and early adulthood can be notably higher. Various health conditions are more prevalent among autistic individuals, including epilepsy, cardiovascular diseases, and elevated suicide rates, particularly among those without co-occurring intellectual or learning disabilities; however, with the lack of study in autism and lack of comprehensive testing and diagnosis for autism, it is impossible to determine whether these comorbidities are related to autism or merely correlation (e.g. people already making regular visits to a doctor are more likely to have a diagnosis than those who have no reason for regular medical visits). Other common causes of death, such as respiratory, infectious, and digestive diseases, are comparable to those of the general population but may be exacerbated by side effects associated with long-term use of neuroleptic medications. Socioeconomic disparities and a higher incidence of accidental deaths, including drownings, also contribute to increased mortality among higher needs individuals. Historically, the autistic population has been vulnerable victims to infanticide. Among individuals with learning disabilities, women have the lowest life expectancy, which may be due to increased difficulty to access resources.

Early mortality among autistic individuals has been the subject of research since the 1990s, particularly in the more developed countries of the Anglosphere and Scandinavian countries. Identified as a "hidden crisis" in 2015, this phenomenon is primarily attributed to comorbidities associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), limited access to appropriate healthcare, and inadequate recognition and management of pain, especially among non-speaking individuals. Genetic predispositions and environmental factors may also play a role. Social exclusion has been linked to lack of awareness of support, lack of healthcare options, and increased suicide risk; while infanticide has been associated with broader social attitudes. Strategies to reduce early mortality include improved management of epilepsy, prevention of accidental drownings and sudden illnesses, enhanced suicide prevention measures, better communication between autistic individuals and healthcare providers, and promotion of regular physical activity.