Prenatal and perinatal risk factors in autistic disorders

Background: Recent evidence suggests higher prevalence of autistic disorder in association with certain prenatal and perinatal factors or adversities. Objectives: 1) to investigate the relationship between autistic disorders and certain prenatal and perinatal conditions, and 2) to identify possible risk factors which could be preventable. Patients and Method: A case-control study of fifty autistic children and fifty non-autistic children, who presented with speech delay to the Psychiatric Research unit at Mosul Medical College and to pediatric outpatient clinic during the period between 10th May 2011 to 10th April 2012. Detailed prenatal and perinatal history was taken from the parents of each patient and control group. Statistical tests were used to calculate Odd ratio, 95% Confidence interval, and p-value. Results: The autistic group was predominantly male. M: F ratio3.5:1. Urban people accounted for 96% of the sample. Six prenatal and perinatal risk factors were identified. These were: advanced maternal age (p=0.000), advanced paternal age (p=0.004), delivery by cesarean section (p=0.02), neonatal asphyxia (p=0.000), neonatal convulsions (p=0.03), and history of previous admission to neonatal intensive care unit (p=0.001). Conclusion and recommendations: The study confirms the presences of some prenatal and perinatal risk factors are associated with autistic disorders. The investigators hope that a better ante-natal, obstetric, and neonatal care may play an important role in protection from this disorder in a significant number of children.