Maternal obesity doubles the risk of autism in infants

Children born to mothers who are obese before or during pregnancy are at increased risk for neuropsychiatric and behavioral disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a new study from the University of South Australia.

Conducted in collaboration with Curtin University, Monash University, SAHMRI and a group of national institutions, a systematic review and meta-analysis of more than 3.6 million mother-to-child births in the 42 epidemiological studies found that obesity during pregnancy:

1.- Increases the risk of ADHD in children by 32%.

2.- Double the risk of developing ASD in children (2.23 times).

3.- Increases the risk of behavioral disorders by 16%

The study also found that maternal obesity or overweight before pregnancy was related to a higher risk of ADHD, ASD, conduct disorder and psychotic disorder, as well as a 30% higher risk of externalizing symptoms and problems. in relationships with peers.

The study provides new insights into the long-term impact of maternal body weight on child brain health and highlights the need for interventions that target maternal weight management before and during pregnancy.

The article was published in the journal Psychiatry Research.