ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND MULTIPLE FACTORS INCLUDING CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGE, A STUDY DONE IN AL MADINA, SAUDI ARABIA

Background: Autism is a disease that results in abnormal biologically determined and emotional contact with others. Social abnormalities and limited interest characterize autism. Autism prevalence varies in different regions in the world. There are several risk factors for autism including pregnancy complications and parental preconception.

Aim: To investigate the prevalence, associated factors and risk factors of autism.

Method: This study is a case-control study that was conducted during the period from December 2017 to March 2018 in Hospitals and medical centers in Al-Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The data were collected using a questionnaire during face to face interview.

Results: Autism prevalence was 50%, factors associated with autism prevalence included nationality (P-value=0.000), children age (P-value=0.000), children gender (P-value=0.000), Rank of children (P-value=0.033), mothers ‘age (P-value=0.007) and fathers ‘age (P-value=0.001). Family history of autism was significant associated risk factor (P-value=0.001).

Conclusion: There was high prevalence of autism among children and there were associated factors related to parents and children. The family history for autism was the only risk factor.

Keywords: Autism, Risk factors, Autism prevalence, Saudi Arabia.