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Mortality in Autism: A Longitudinal Register-Based Study
Maria Marinopoulou1,2,3, Caroline Mårland4,5, Christopher Gillberg4,5
1Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. maria.marinopoulou@gnc.gu.se.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|April 16, 2026
Summary
Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) face a higher mortality risk compared to the general population. This highlights the need for targeted health monitoring and support for this vulnerable group.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
- Mortality Studies
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and communication.
- Co-occurring intellectual disability (ID) is common in individuals with ASD.
- Limited research exists on long-term mortality risks in adults with ASD, particularly those with ID.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mortality rates and causes of death in a population-based cohort of adults with ASD.
- To compare mortality findings in adults with ASD against a matched general population sample.
- To identify specific risk factors for mortality within the ASD cohort.
Main Methods:
- A Swedish population-based cohort of 113 adults diagnosed with ASD (born 1962-1984) was followed from 2000-2023.
- The ASD cohort was compared to a matched general population sample (N=1130).
- Data on mortality and causes of death were obtained from the National Cause of Death Register; survival analysis and Cox regression were employed.
Main Results:
- The ASD group exhibited a significantly higher mortality rate (9.7%) compared to the general population group (2.7%) (p < .001).
- Individuals with ASD had a 3.77 times higher risk of mortality (Hazard Ratio = 3.77, p < .001).
- A higher mortality rate was observed in individuals with severe ID within the ASD cohort (p < .05).
Conclusions:
- Adults with ASD, especially those with co-occurring ID, face an elevated risk of premature death.
- Findings underscore the critical need for enhanced health surveillance and proactive health promotion strategies for individuals with ASD.
- Special attention should be directed towards individuals with ASD and co-occurring ID to mitigate mortality risks.
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