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Association Between Autism Spectrum Disorders and Cardiometabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Chathurika S Dhanasekara1,2, Dominic Ancona1, Leticia Cortes1
1Department of Laboratory Science and Primary Care, School of Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock.
Individuals with autism have a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes, dyslipidemia, and heart disease. This highlights the need for vigilant monitoring of cardiometabolic health in this population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Cardiology
Background:
- The increased risk of obesity in individuals with autism is established.
- Evidence linking autism, cardiometabolic disorders, and obesity is inconclusive.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for preventative healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the association between autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and cardiometabolic diseases.
- To quantify the risks of specific cardiometabolic conditions in individuals with ASD.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive search of multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.) was conducted up to July 31, 2022.
- Included observational or baseline data from studies comparing individuals with and without autism regarding cardiometabolic risk factors.
- Meta-analyses were performed using DerSimonian-Laird random-effects models.
Main Results:
- Autism was associated with increased risks of overall diabetes (RR, 1.57), type 1 diabetes (RR, 1.64), and type 2 diabetes (RR, 2.47).
- Increased risks of dyslipidemia (RR, 1.69) and heart disease (RR, 1.46) were observed in individuals with autism.
- No significantly increased risk of hypertension or stroke was found, though children with autism showed higher risks than adults.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with autism spectrum disorder face elevated risks for several cardiometabolic diseases, particularly diabetes and dyslipidemia.
- Clinical monitoring for cardiometabolic disease signs and complications in individuals with autism is strongly recommended.
- Further research may be needed to address heterogeneity and clarify risks for hypertension and stroke.
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