Exploring the Association Between Parental Age and Autism Spectrum Disorder Risk in Qatar

PURPOSE: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by complex factors. Advanced parental age at childbirth has been associated with an increased likelihood of ASD. This study investigates the association between parental age and its correlation with ASD within the Qatari population, offering novel insights into an underrepresented region in autism research. METHODS: A case-control design was utilized, including 970 ASD cases and 955 controls. Controls consisted of typically developing (TD) children and children with other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Statistical analyses included bivariate and multivariable logistic regression, with adjustment for potential confounders. RESULTS: Most ASD cases were male (79.4%), with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3.85:1. Maternal age at childbirth was significantly higher among cases (30.14 ± 5.45 years; p < 0.001). A dose-dependent increase in the probability of ASD diagnosis was observed for mothers aged ≥ 30 years, with mothers aged 30–34 years having an aOR of 1.769 (95% CI: 1.320–2.372), 35–39 years an aOR of 2.046 (95% CI: 1.395–3.000), and the highest risk observed in mothers aged ≥ 40 years (aOR: 2.062, 95% CI: 1.184–3.593). Paternal age was significantly associated with ASD in unadjusted analyses but lost significance after adjusting for maternal age and other confounders. CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the need for broader awareness of factors linked to ASD and emphasize early identification and timely access to services.