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Published on: September 20, 2024
Prenatal risk factors for autism: comprehensive meta-analysis
Hannah Gardener1, Donna Spiegelman, Stephen L Buka
1Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Post Office Box 016960 (M712), Miami, FL 33101, USA. hgardener@med.miami.edu
Summary
While the exact cause of autism remains unknown, this meta-analysis reviewed prenatal exposures. Some pregnancy complications may slightly increase autism risk, but no single factor is definitively implicated.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Epidemiology
- Genetics and Genomics
Background:
- The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not fully understood.
- Prenatal exposures have been investigated for over four decades as potential contributing factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first quantitative review and meta-analysis on the association between maternal pregnancy complications and ASD risk.
- To synthesize evidence on pregnancy-related factors and their impact on autism risk.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO.
- Forty epidemiological studies examining pregnancy-related factors and autism were included in the meta-analysis.
- Summary effect estimates were calculated for frequently examined factors.
Main Results:
- Over 50 prenatal factors were assessed for their association with autism risk.
- Factors linked to increased autism risk included advanced parental age, maternal medication use, bleeding, gestational diabetes, being firstborn, and maternal foreign birth.
- Factors with strong evidence against a role in autism risk included previous fetal loss and maternal hypertension, proteinuria, pre-eclampsia, and swelling.
Conclusions:
- Insufficient evidence exists to pinpoint any single prenatal factor as causative for autism.
- Some evidence suggests that exposure to pregnancy complications during gestation may elevate the risk of developing autism.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:29Biological Causes of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia, a severe psychiatric disorder, arises from a complex interplay of biological factors, including genetic predisposition, structural brain abnormalities, neurotransmitter dysregulation, and developmental irregularities. These factors collectively contribute to the onset and progression of the disorder, which typically manifests in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
The genetic basis of schizophrenia is strongly supported by family and twin studies.
Genetic Factors in Schizophrenia
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01:28Human Genetics
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...