Medical and health problems in adults with high-functioning autism and asperger syndrome

Abstract

Adults on the autism spectrum experience a wide range of medical and health problems-some at a higher prevalence compared with the general population. Although these problems can significantly affect quality of life, information on medical comorbidities for this group is sparse, and general knowledge of disorders associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in community-based medical settings is lacking. In this chapter, we review medical and health problems experienced by adults with ASD. We begin this discussion by examining possible risk factors associated with health problems in this group, in addition to the current literature on prevalence rates of specific disorders. The focus of this chapter is on those who have historically been identified with high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome.