Assessment of Suicidal Behaviors Among Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Denmark

Importance There is limited evidence supporting an association of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with suicidality and the risk factors for suicide attempt among people ASD. Existing research highlights need national cohort studies. Objectives To analyze whether ASD have higher rates compared without using register data, identify potential those ASD, examine associations comorbid disorders. Design, Setting, Participants In this study, nationwide data from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2016, were gathered on 6 559 266 individuals in Denmark aged 10 years or older. Statistical analysis was performed November 20, 2018, 21, 2020. Main Outcomes Measures Rates persons Poisson regression models calculate incidence rate ratios adjusted sex, age, time period. Results Of total study population individuals, 35 020 (25 718 male [73.4%]; mean [SD] age at diagnosis, 13.4 [9.3] years) received a diagnosis A 64 109 incidents attempts (587 [0.9%] ASD) 14 197 suicides (53 [0.4%] recorded. Persons had more than 3-fold (adjusted ratio [aIRR], 3.19; 95% CI, 2.93-3.46) (aIRR, 3.75; 2.85-4.92) For aIRR female 4.41-fold (95% 3.74-5.19) individuals; 1.41-fold 1.39-1.43) individuals. Higher noted across all groups only 1.33 0.99-1.78) attempt, whereas other disorders 9.27 8.51-10.10) any psychiatric 542 587 (92.3%) who attempted least 1 condition 48 53 (90.6%) died by condition. Conclusions Relevance This retrospective found Psychiatric comorbidity be major factor, 90% having another Several are different general population, which suggests tailored prevention strategies.