Adults with autism who are in midlife or older are approximately twice as likely to develop symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease, a recent study indicates. The research analyzed health records of over 57 million individuals aged 45 and older.
US researchers found that autistic adults developed Parkinson's symptoms at roughly four times the rate of those without the neurodevelopmental disorder. Specifically, about 4% of individuals with autism diagnoses exhibited telltale tremors, muscle stiffness, and cognitive and memory issues, compared to 1.6% in a control group. Rates were also higher for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and highest among those with both autism and an intellectual disability.
The study, conducted by researchers at The George Washington University, suggests that the increased risk may not solely be due to coordination difficulties sometimes associated with autism. Previous research had explored whether certain medications commonly prescribed to autistic individuals, such as antipsychotics, could cause Parkinson's-like side effects. However, the current study found that the elevated risk remained significant even after accounting for medication use.
Parkinson's disease is characterized by a decline in dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to motor symptoms like tremors and slowed movement. Dopamine is a chemical crucial for regulating movement, motivation, and behavior. Research suggests that people with autism may process dopamine differently, which could potentially explain the observed overlap between the two conditions.
While the study does not establish a causal link where autism causes Parkinson's, scientists are investigating whether shared biological or environmental factors, particularly abnormalities in dopamine pathways, might underlie this connection. This could potentially lead to new treatment approaches for both conditions.
Researchers also cautioned that motor difficulties experienced by some autistic individuals from an early age can mimic Parkinson's-like symptoms, complicating diagnosis. They emphasized the need for increased awareness and more routine assessment of these symptoms in autistic populations.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability affecting communication and social interaction. Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition that impacts motor control and can lead to significant disability over time. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's, experts are hopeful about advancements in treatments designed to slow disease progression, with some new medications potentially available within the next few years.