The Impacts of Paternal Age and Maternal Stress Levels During Pregnancy on Autism Spectrum Disorder - A Survey-Based Study

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face unique barriers in daily life, education, and social interactions. Family members also face challenges in caregiving, education, and social interactions, often contributing to heightened stress, depression, and trauma. This questionnaire-based survey study aimed to understand the roles of parental and prenatal conditions in ASD development. Data were collected through online questionnaires completed by families of individuals with clinically diagnosed ASD. The questionnaire consisted of multiple-choice questions and was distributed via email to families (n=123) affiliated with the Pan American Health Society. We found: 1) A significant association between paternal age and incidence of ASD. 2) A strong association between maternal stress levels during pregnancy and incidence of ASD. 3) An association between autism and male gender. This survey highlights several critical parental and prenatal factors associated with ASD. Paternal age and maternal stress during pregnancy emerged as contributors to ASD development, underscoring the need for awareness and preventative strategies. The observed association between autism status and male gender provides a basis for further investigation into biological and environmental mechanisms. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions and enhanced support systems to address risk factors and improve outcomes for individuals with ASD and their families.