Are autism diagnosis rates equal for men and women?

Recent research indicates that autism diagnosis rates are now more or less equal for men and women, challenging earlier assumptions.

What is the 'female catch-up effect' in autism diagnoses?

The 'female catch-up effect' refers to the observed increase in autism diagnoses among girls during adolescence, leading to near-equal rates with boys by adulthood.

Why might autism be underdiagnosed in females?

Females may 'mask' autism symptoms more readily, making them harder to identify, which can lead to late diagnosis or misdiagnosis with other conditions.

Home / Health / Autism Gender Gap Closes: Study Reveals Parity

Autism Gender Gap Closes: Study Reveals Parity

5 Feb

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Summary

Autism diagnosis rates are nearly equal between men and women.
A Swedish study tracked over 2.7 million individuals born between 1985-2000.
Girls diagnosed later in adolescence show a 'female catch-up effect'.

Autism Gender Gap Closes: Study Reveals Parity

A significant study has found that autism diagnosis rates are now nearly equal between men and women, challenging long-held beliefs of a substantial gender disparity. Researchers meticulously tracked over 2.7 million individuals born in Sweden between 1985 and 2000, analyzing their diagnostic journeys up to 2022.

Historically, autism was believed to affect males at a much higher rate. However, this new research indicates that while boys under 10 were diagnosed more often, adolescent girls experienced a rapid increase in diagnoses. This 'female catch-up effect' results in comparable rates by the age of 20, suggesting potential late or underdiagnosis in females.

Experts emphasize that this finding is crucial for understanding autism and ensuring equitable diagnosis and support for all genders. They highlight that women and girls may 'mask' symptoms more, leading to difficulties in identification and potential misdiagnosis with other conditions. This underscores the need to address outdated stereotypes and improve recognition of autism in females.