A new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have a lower risk of injury compared to children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The research, conducted by scientists from Ben-Gurion University, Clalit Health Services, and Loewenstein Rehabilitation Medical Center, analyzed medical records from 325,412 children born between 2005 and 2009 in Israel.
Children with ASD, ADHD, or both conditions (ASD+ADHD) visited the emergency department (ED) more often than typically developing children.
Children with ASD were more likely to visit the ED for inhalation or ingestion injuries (such as swallowing non-food items) but were less likely to have orthopedic injuries (like broken bones) or injuries caused by animals.
Children with ASD, even those with ADHD, had injury rates that were the same or lower than typically developing children.
Why might children with ASD have fewer injuries?
The researchers suggested a few possible reasons for this unexpected finding:
Higher Anxiety Levels – Many children with autism experience anxiety, which may make them more cautious and less likely to engage in risky activities that could lead to injuries.
Increased Supervision – Parents, teachers, and therapists often provide closer supervision to children with autism, which may reduce their chances of getting hurt.
Different Risk Awareness – While children with ASD were less likely to have physical injuries, they were more likely to suffer from burns or inhalation injuries, possibly because they don’t recognize these dangers as well as other children.
This study highlights important differences in how children with ASD and ADHD experience injuries. Understanding these differences can help develop better injury prevention strategies.
For example:
Children with ADHD may need extra safety measures to prevent falls, accidents, or reckless behavior that can lead to injuries.
Children with ASD may benefit from more education on household dangers, such as the risk of burns or choking hazards.
While children with autism are less likely to experience common physical injuries, they still face unique risks.
Meanwhile, children with ADHD are more prone to accidents and injuries. Tailored safety strategies for each group could help reduce emergency visits and improve overall well-being.
The research findings can be found in JAMA Network Open.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
