Autistic individuals face higher mortality risks than the general population. What is the leading cause of death in autism? Research identifies accidents (especially drowning in children) and suicide (in adults without intellectual disability) as primary causes, alongside epilepsy and cardiovascular disease.
Key Causes by Age Group
- Children: Drowning accounts for over 90% of accidental deaths; 30+ cases in US by mid-2025.
- Adults: Suicide rates 9x higher; epilepsy and heart disease prevalent.
- Overall: External causes (accidents, suicide) and neurological disorders top lists.
Contributing Factors
Comorbidities like epilepsy (13.5% avoidable deaths) and respiratory issues elevate risks. Average death age: 36 years vs. 72 general population.
Conclusion
What is the leading cause of death in autism? Accidents like drowning and suicide dominate. Able Stars ABA in Maryland prevents risks with personalized safety programs. Empower your child—start with our consultation call today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why higher drowning risk?
Wandering/elopement common; 90% accidental child deaths.
Can ABA reduce risks?
Yes, teaches safety skills effectively.
Sources:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S175094672300065X
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortality_of_autistic_individuals
- https://www.autismfl.org/drowning-prevention
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2830153
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1089/aut.2023.0103
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11992906/
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit-excerpt/how-prepare-your-autistic-child-dental-visits
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6713622/
- https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/update-on-learning-disability-and-autism-programme/
- https://psychology.org.au/for-members/publications/inpsych/2019/june/analyse-this/death-risk-higher-for-people-with-autism
- https://autismaction.org.uk/our-work/suicide-prevention/