Comparison of Personal, Health and Family Characteristics of Children With and Without Autism

Abstract

Today it is reported that one in 88 children in the U.S. has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with rates continuing to rise. Early diagnosis and intervention are imperative, as well as a systematic way to identify characteristics of children that put them at risk for ASD as well as associated comorbidities. Few studies have examined whether the health status of the child or the type of health insurance impacts the diagnosis and intervention. The aim of this study is to examine and compare the personal (child), family, and health status characteristics of children (< 18 years) with autism with a matched sample (age and gender) of children without autism as reported in the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS): 2009. A descriptive, exploratory study with secondary analysis was performed using data from the NHIS: 2009. Frequencies, chi-square, and ANOVA were used in data analysis. In this study there was a higher proportion of children with autism residing with biological, adoptive, and step parents. The study also reveals that children with autism have a significantly (p<.05) higher incidence of specific comorbidities such as developmental delays, learning disabilities/ADHD, and seizures, a higher number of health care visits, as well as lower average family health status scores. Identifying characteristics that are common among children with autism will help identify other health problems associated with ASD, create a systematic way to identify potential risks, and serve as a baseline for early intervention programs.