Rationale and impact

Factors associated with an increased prevalence of autism

Why the committee updated box 1 in recommendation 1.3.3

The evidence showed that children and young people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to have autism spectrum disorder than those without ADHD. Therefore ADHD was added to the list of factors associated with an increased prevalence of autism.

How the updated recommendation might affect practice

Including ADHD as a factor associated with an increased prevalence of autism will help to promote early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. It also allows for joint assessment for both conditions in children and young people with signs or symptoms that could be caused by either condition.

The committee agreed that this supports current practice and is unlikely to lead to a substantial resource impact.

Return to recommendations

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)