Increased risk of hip fractures in children with autism

Credit: By Mikael Häggström via Wikimedia Commons

People with autism are at a higher risk of getting a hip fracture than people without the disorder, according to new research presented at the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) 2014. 

This risk is three times higher in males with autism between the ages of 3 and 22. In addition, adult women with autism are at a higher risk of fractures in their spine and upper extremities.

"A higher risk for fracture, particularly for fractures associated with significant morbidity, such as hip and spine fracture, is concerning in this population, given difficulties expressing pain, sitting still, and cooperating with the intense rehabilitative therapies after surgery," co-author Madhusmita Misra, MD, MPH said.

Credit: Juanitosaur via Wikimedia Commons

This research is consistent with an earlier study linking autism and low bone mineral density.  Researchers are also investigating the role parts of the central nervous system, such as the cerebral cortex, play in the regulation of bone metabolism. 

“Both children and adults with ASD are at increased risk for hip fracture, and women with ASD are also at risk for fractures of the upper extremity and spine,” Misra told Endocrine Today. “We are still in the process of determining the factors that contribute to this increase in fracture risk. However, until these determinants are known, it is important to optimize weight-bearing activities, as well as calcium and vitamin D intake in this population.” 

"Brief Report: Bone Fractures in Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders" is published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action