Brief Report: Bone Fractures in Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Peripubertal boys with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have lower bone mineral density (BMD) than typically developing controls. However, it is not clear whether lower BMD in ASD results in an increased fracture rate. This study examined the rate of fractures in children and adults with and without ASD using a national database of emergency room visits (Nationwide Emergency Department Sample). A higher odds ratio for hip fractures in children and young adults (3–22 years) as well as older adults (23–50 years) with ASD than those without ASD, and a higher odds ratio for forearm and spine fractures in women ages 23–50 with ASD were found. Further studies are necessary to better understand the decreased bone density in ASD and its implications for fracture development.