Disparities in adversity among children with autism spectrum disorder: a population‐based study

Aim People with autism spectrum disorders ( ASD s) experience disparities in health. An important but overlooked risk factor for health disparities in the ASD population is adverse childhood experiences ( ACE s). The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of ACE s among families of children with and without ASD , using a population‐based sample. Method Data from the 2011 to 2012 National Survey of Child Health were analyzed to estimate prevalence of ACE s among families of children with and without ASD , age 3 to 17 years ( ASD =1611; estimated population=1 165 34). The child's ASD status was obtained from parent report; ACE s were assessed with the modified Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale. Bivariate and multinomial logistic regression analyses were utilized to investigate the relationship between ACE s and childhood ASD status. Results ASD status among children was significantly and independently associated with higher probability of reporting one to three ACE s (adjusted relative risk ratio [ aRRR ] 1.53; 95% CI : 1.16–2.0; p <0.010) and four or more ACE s ( aRRR 1.99; 95% CI : 1.35–2.91; p <0.010). Interpretation Children with ASD may experience a greater number of family and neighborhood adversities, potentially compromising their chances for optimal physical and behavioral health outcomes. Assessment and reduction of ACE s among families of young people with ASD could potentially contribute to the reduction of population health disparities.