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Autism, ethnicity and maternal immigration
1Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, Room 2.35, 2nd Floor Clare House, St George's Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK. daphne.keen@stgeorges.nhs.uk
Summary
Maternal immigration is linked to a higher risk of autism-spectrum disorders in children. This risk varies by region of birth and ethnicity, with Caribbean and Black mothers showing higher rates.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- European studies suggest higher autism rates in children of immigrant parents, contrasting with North American findings.
- Previous research presents conflicting evidence regarding maternal ethnicity, immigrant status, and autism rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between maternal ethnicity, immigration, and the incidence of childhood autism-spectrum disorders.
- To clarify the role of maternal origin and immigrant status in autism risk.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 428 children diagnosed with autism-spectrum disorders over six years.
- Involved case-note review from child development services across two centers.
Main Results:
- Mothers born outside Europe had a significantly increased risk of autism-spectrum disorders compared to UK-born mothers.
- The highest risk was observed in the Caribbean group (RR=10.01, 8.89).
- Mothers of Black ethnicity also showed a higher risk compared to White mothers (RR=8.28, 3.84), with immigration appearing to be the primary driver of increased risk.
Conclusions:
- Maternal immigration is associated with a substantial increase in the risk of autism-spectrum disorders.
- The risk appears to differ based on the mother's region of birth and potentially ethnicity.
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