Recurrence risk in autism spectrum disorder: A study of parental knowledge

Abstract

Aim: To describe recurrence risk information currently being obtained by families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: Structured telephone interview of parents of 21 children who received a diagnosis of ASD at Calvary Health Care Tasmania, Hobart, Australia between May 2005 and May 2006. Results: Only one of the 21 parents knew their true recurrence risk. Many overestimated their risk substantially, and in four cases this had led to a decision against increasing family size. Eleven parents said they had received no information about recurrence risk, and only one cited medical practitioners as a source of information about recurrence risk. Conclusion: Current provision of information about recurrence risk to families affected by ASD is inadequate. © 2007 The Authors.